A suspect is in police custody after a fatal shooting at a Walgreens in Madera, California, which resulted in the death of an employee on Monday night, March 31. Officials report the suspect had a “general disdain” for large pharmacy chains, prompting him to travel over 80 miles to execute the attack.

The incident occurred shortly after 9:30 p.m. at the Walgreens situated at the intersection of Cleveland Avenue and Schnoor Street in Madera. Law enforcement responded to the scene following reports of gunfire inside the establishment.

The victim has been identified as Erick Velasquez, who was a Walgreens employee and father of two young children. Velasquez was not working in the pharmacy section, which was closed during the time of the shooting.

The alleged shooter, Narciso Gallardo Fernandez, aged 30, traveled about 80 miles from Pixley, California, to the Walgreens in Madera. Police stated that Fernandez had no personal relationship with Velasquez but targeted the store due to his negative view of major pharmacy chains.

According to the Madera Police Chief, Fernandez entered the store just before closing and began his attack by shooting at surveillance cameras. Police reports indicate that Velasquez managed to call 911, but was unable to communicate when the dispatcher answered. Gunshots were heard in the background during the call.

“There were customers with children inside the store at the time of the shooting,” police officials stated, noting that Fernandez also fired at other employees as they tried to escape. Remarkably, no other individuals were injured during the incident.

Upon arrival, officers found Fernandez in the parking lot reloading his weapon. He was immediately taken into custody without any further incident. The firearm used was recovered at the scene.

Store surveillance footage captured Fernandez aiming his gun at security cameras before disabling them. Police confirmed that the attack was not linked to gang activity.

Investigators stated there is no evidence linking Fernandez’s disdain for large pharmacies to broader healthcare system issues. Authorities also clarified that the shooting was not related to a separate incident involving the targeted killing of a UnitedHealthcare CEO.

Fernandez was booked into the Madera County Jail on charges of homicide. He faces charges of murder with a gun enhancement and attempted murder with a gun enhancement. Fernandez’s pre-preliminary hearing was scheduled for April 4.

In response to the incident, Walgreens issued a statement expressing its deep sorrow. The company announced plans to offer grief counselors and support staff when the store reopens later in the week.

Community members described Velasquez as having a “big bright smile” and being well-regarded locally. Following the shooting, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to support Velasquez’s wife and two children.

This incident is part of a concerning trend of workplace violence affecting retail and healthcare environments. The Madera Police Department continues to investigate and gather evidence.

The Walgreens location was expected to stay closed for several days as the investigation progresses and to give employees time to cope with the event. Walgreens confirmed that on-site counseling services will be available for all team members affected by the incident.

Local authorities encourage anyone who witnessed the shooting or has additional information to contact the Madera Police Department.