Two Buffalo women charged in Walden Galleria stabbing

Lakeya N. Richerson and Joshalyn S. Paul face assault and weapons charges after alleged attack on three victims.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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Two women from Buffalo, New York, Lakeya N. Richerson, 22, and Joshalyn S. Paul, 21, have been arraigned on charges of assault and criminal possession of a weapon in connection with a stabbing incident that occurred at the Walden Galleria mall on February 13, 2026. The two women allegedly caused physical injuries to three victims during an altercation inside the mall, and the victims were transported to a local hospital for treatment of various stab wounds.

Why it matters

Violent incidents at shopping malls are concerning for public safety, as these spaces are meant to be family-friendly environments. The Walden Galleria is a major retail and entertainment destination in the Buffalo area, and an attack of this nature raises questions about security measures and de-escalation protocols at such large commercial properties.

The details

According to investigators, Richerson and Paul were charged with three counts of Assault in the Second Degree and one count of Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Fourth Degree. A 2 On Your Side photojournalist at the scene reported seeing blood on the ground and medical gauze from where emergency responders treated someone on the first floor inside the Galleria. Cheektowaga Police and mall security had taped off the area and guided shoppers away.

  • The incident occurred on February 13, 2026 inside the Walden Galleria mall.
  • Richerson and Paul were arraigned on the charges on Saturday, February 17, 2026.
  • The two women are scheduled to return to court for a felony hearing on Thursday, February 19, 2026.

The players

Lakeya N. Richerson

A 22-year-old Buffalo resident who was arraigned on charges of assault and criminal possession of a weapon in connection with the Walden Galleria stabbing incident.

Joshalyn S. Paul

A 21-year-old Buffalo resident who was arraigned on charges of assault and criminal possession of a weapon in connection with the Walden Galleria stabbing incident.

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What’s next

The judge will decide on Thursday, February 19, 2026 whether to allow Richerson and Paul to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for enhanced security measures and de-escalation protocols at large shopping malls to ensure the safety of customers and prevent violent outbursts. It also raises questions about the root causes of such altercations and what can be done to address underlying societal issues that may contribute to this type of behavior.