In Irving, Texas a manhunt concluded with the arrest of Oved Bernardo Mendoza Argueta, a 37-year-old citizen of El Salvador, following a targeted shooting at a Chick-fil-A restaurant. The incident on Wednesday afternoon, June 26, 2024, left two people dead and sent shockwaves through the community.

The Irving Police Department announced Mendoza Argueta’s arrest the following day. According to police, Mendoza Argueta, who is in the United States illegally, was charged with capital murder of multiple persons. 

The shooting occurred around 3:40 p.m. at the Chick-fil-A on North MacArthur Boulevard. The victims were identified as 49-year-old Patricia Portillo and 31-year-old Brayan Alexis Godoy. Both victims were employees of the restaurant. Police believe the shooting was not a random act of violence but a targeted incident.

“We can confirm that the suspect was taken into custody early this morning,” said a spokesperson for the Irving Police Department. “Mendoza Argueta has an ICE hold, with the warrant agency being Immigration and Naturalization Service Dallas/Fort Worth.”

Mendoza Argueta’s wife, a Chick-fil-A employee, witnessed the shooting and positively identified him as the perpetrator. Following the incident, Mendoza Argueta fled the scene, prompting a manhunt. Authorities released a photograph of him and the 1997 Honda 4-door car he was last seen driving, urging the public to assist in locating him.

During the search, the police ensured the public that there was no immediate threat. “We believe this was a targeted incident,” an official said. “This was not a random act of violence.” Television footage from the scene showed police cars surrounding the Chick-fil-A, with screens placed in front of some windows and blocked parking lot.

Witnesses inside the restaurant described the panic and chaos that ensued. Latina Williams, whose daughter was at the Taco Bell next door, recounted the terrifying moments. “She called me, crying and scared,” Williams said. “She heard the commotion from the Chick-fil-A and didn’t know what was happening.”

The Irving Police Department is actively investigating the incident, interviewing potential witnesses, and reviewing surveillance footage. “We are still trying to determine exactly what led to the shooting,” said Officer Anthony Alexander. “We are conducting interviews with potential witnesses and gathering as much information as possible.”

A memorial was set up outside the restaurant for the victims. Patricia Portillo’s family created a GoFundMe to help with funeral expenses. “Our hearts are broken by the tragedy that occurred inside our restaurant Wednesday,” said the local Chick-fil-A owner. “We will miss our two team members dearly. Right now, we focus on providing care for our team and the victims’ families.”