A Walgreens employee who was carrying a concealed object fatally shot a suspected shoplifter and held the employee at gunpoint during a confrontation outside a Chicago-area store early Sunday morning.
Authorities were called to the shooting just after 2 a.m. outside a store in the 500 block of Torrence Street in Calumet City, Illinois. told WMAQ-TV. Calumet City is about 30 minutes south of Chicago and just west of the Indiana border.
“He should be promoted to store manager.”
Officials said the employees approached a 42-year-old man and a 48-year-old woman, took the items without paying for them and left the store.
According to WMAQ, the employees recovered the items from the woman, but she fled the scene on foot. But when the man approached, he pulled out a handgun, police said.
As a result, a Walgreens employee who had a valid concealed carry permit opened fire, killing the suspect, authorities told WMAQ.
WBBM-TV reported The employee who fired the shot was a store security guard, and the shoplifting suspect was shot in the chest.
Police found the suspect driving a vehicle in the 1600 block of Sibley Boulevard near Yates Avenue, and the suspect was taken to a trauma center, where he died, authorities told WMAQ.
The man was identified as Mario Almendarez, of Chicago, the Cook County Medical Examiner's Office told WMAQ.
Calumet City detectives began an investigation late Sunday, WMAQ reported, adding that anyone with information is asked to call the Calumet City Police Department at 708-868-2500.
What is the reaction of observers?
WMAQ's Facebook post about the shooting has received nearly 200 comments since it was published on Sunday, many of which appear to be positive.
- One commenter said, “He should be promoted to store manager.” said.
- “He should get a medal,” said another user. declared.
- Another commented: “One more thing for all the good people.” observed.
- “Good,” another user said. noticed. “Employee of the Year Award!”
- “Amazing!!!!!!” another commenter shouted. “We need more of this. Weird lame guy wake up and forever incompetent Walgreens.” [management] I'd probably fire the guy. ”
- “I noticed it going in circles,” said another user. concluded. “It’s the only way they learn.”
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