Chief: Traders World altercation that led to shooting involved ‘criminal elements’

Buchanan said the incident started between two people from different “criminal elements” who got into an altercation in Barn 9 that resulted in several more people from both sides who enlarged the altercation. He declined to identify either group as a gang. Buchanan said multiple shots were fired during the incident.

The first reports of the shooting occurred at approximately 1:58 p.m. at the flea market located at 601 Union Road and Ohio 63. Multiple police departments responded to the large market area and traffic was stopped at Traders World’s main entrance. Police were seen checking customers as they left the main entrance and also placed tape encircling Barns 8 and 9 for possible related evidence later Sunday afternoon.

According to the 911 caller, somebody was shot in Building 9 at the leather shop and was “bleeding terribly.”

The victim was shot in the extremities with a handgun and was taken to Atrium Medical Center for treatment, Buchanan said.

Buchanan said Sunday that officials didn’t believe there was a threat to the community and this was an isolated incident between two people.

Police did arrest one person who was not involved in the shooting for having a weapon under disability. However, Buchanan declined to identify the victim or the person who was arrested who was found with a weapon and said the investigation is ongoing and that police were still working on the motive for the shooting.

Jay Frick, Traders World manager, said Sunday’s fight was an isolated incident.

“The police departments came in and did a wonderful job,” Frick said. “It was very much appreciated. We felt fortunate that nothing else happened.”

He said nothing like this had ever happened there before. The iconic flea market with its red barns and giraffes is easily seen by motorists on the east side of Interstate 75. Traders World opened in November 1984, according to its website.

Frick said the flea market plans to be open next weekend, March 21-22, as the facility has vendors who sell groceries, produce, medical, health and beauty aids.