RICHLAND, Wash. – The Uptown Shopping Center in Richland has been experiencing an increase in crime over the last few months, according to the Richland Police Department.
There was a deadly shooting in the shopping center in November 2024 and the arrest of a convicted felon on gun and drug charges in January.
RPD has increased patrols at the shopping center during the day and around 2:00 a.m. when the bars close.
Richland Police Department Commander Damon Jansen noted a rise in crime towards the end of 2024, particularly late at night and on weekends.
“So we’ve had a homicide a couple of months ago, and we’ve had some other issues of a violent nature and so that really raises our attention,” Jansen said. “We want to ensure that everyone’s safe no matter what they’re doing. And, so therefore we’re trying to do some extra patrols and make sure that people are safe.”
Tina Pack owns a bakery in the center and shared her perspective on the situation.
“I’m not here a lot at night by myself,” Pack said. “My experience has been mostly positive. I mean, we’ve had some things happen, but it’s all been after hours and things like that.”
Pack and other business owners in the Uptown Shopping Center are proactive about security and work together to keep the area safe.
“Encouraging other business owners to have cameras so that if something happens to their business or the other businesses around here, they’re getting that information as well,” Pack said.
Pack offered advice for those enjoying the nightlife in the shopping center.
“If you’re going to go out and have your fun, do it. But be responsible. That’s all we’re asking.”
