Suspected Trader Joe parking lot shooter charged

A Connecticut man was charged Tuesday in a weekend shooting that left one dead and three injured in the parking lot of a Trader Joe’s in the San Fernando Valley, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.

Mark Connole, 34, faces one count of murder and three counts of attempted murder, as well as special allegations of use of a handgun and grievous bodily harm.

“This shameless act of violence took place in the middle of a Saturday afternoon. Innocent shoppers could easily have been injured or killed,” Los Angeles County Dist said. Atti. Gascón said in a statement. “This shocking level of disregard for the safety and well-being of our community will not be tolerated.”

The violence unfolded around 3:45 p.m. Saturday at a West Hills mall that also included a Target, Home Depot and Walmart.

Prosecutors did not respond when asked what prompted the shooting.

Connole allegedly shot the victims and fled the scene in a car. Officers in a Los Angeles Police Department helicopter saw him get into another car. Connole and the driver of the second car, Amy Waters, were arrested at Owensmouth Avenue and Saticoy Street after a short chase. Two firearms were recovered.

Waters, 33, was charged with accessory after the fact, possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell and reckless driving while attempting to flee from a police officer.

The couple were scheduled to be arraigned Wednesday in the Van Nuys Branch of Los Angeles County Superior Court, but their appearances continued through April 13.