MADERA, Calif. – In a shocking incident at a local Walgreens, a man fatally shot a store employee in what appears to be a targeted attack against the pharmacy industry. Officials identified the suspect as Narciso Gallardo Fernandez, who allegedly harbored a deep-seated grudge against large pharmacy chains.
The tragic event unfolded late Monday evening when Fernandez entered the Walgreens located off Cleveland Avenue and opened fire, according to Madera Police Chief Gino Chiaramonte. The assailant specifically targeted employees, resulting in the death of Erick Velasquez, who was on duty at the time. Surveillance footage revealed Fernandez waving a gun at the camera and discharging a shot that disabled the recording device, moments before he carried out the attack.
Authorities have reported that although Fernandez shot at other employees and customers as they fled, no additional injuries occurred. Eyewitnesses and surveillance video played a crucial role in piecing together the sequence of events. Police apprehended Fernandez in the parking lot shortly after the incident; he was allegedly reloading his firearm when officers arrived on scene.
During subsequent police interviews, Fernandez expressed his disdain for large pharmacy operations. However, Chief Chiaramonte clarified that there currently seems to be no connection between Fernandez’s personal vendetta and any broader ideological or systemic issues within the healthcare sector.
Erick Velasquez, the victim of this senseless violence, was not a pharmacist, adding a layer of randomness to the tragedy. At the time of the shooting, the store’s pharmacy section was closed. Velasquez is survived by his wife and two children and was remembered by the community as a respected and well-loved individual. According to the police, Velasquez managed to dial 911 during the attack, but tragically could not communicate with the dispatcher.
Walgreens has since issued a statement expressing deep sorrow over the incident and extended their condolences to Velasquez’s family. The company emphasized the importance of safety for both customers and staff, announcing that on-site counseling services will be provided to support employees during this difficult time.
Chief Chiaramonte disclosed that Fernandez, now facing multiple felony charges including murder, had driven over 80 miles from Pixley to Madera. This detail highlights the premeditated nature of his actions.
The Madera Police Department continues to investigate the motive behind the attack and has urged anyone with additional information to come forward to assist with the ongoing case. Meanwhile, the community and the Velasquez family are left to mourn amidst calls for increased security measures at pharmacies and similar establishments nationwide.