Crime
2 injured after shooting at Walmart in Evergreen Park, suspect in custody
EVERGREEN PARK, Ill. — A chaotic scene unfolded Wednesday evening at the Walmart Supercenter near 95th Street and Western Avenue after gunfire erupted inside the busy store, leaving two people shot and several others injured while fleeing the area, according to authorities.
The Evergreen Park Police Department, assisted by Chicago Police and multiple emergency agencies, responded to the incident around 7:20 p.m. following reports of an active shooter situation.
Upon arrival, officers quickly entered and secured the store, locating two gunshot victims—one person shot in the leg and another grazed in the foot.
Both victims were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Their conditions have not yet been released.
In addition to the shooting victims, several other individuals sustained minor injuries while attempting to escape the store amid the panic.
An EMS Plan 1 was activated, bringing multiple ambulances and fire units from surrounding jurisdictions to assist with triage and medical aid.
Initial witness accounts and surveillance footage indicated that the suspect, described as a light-skinned Black male with short dreadlocks, was wearing all black clothing and a shirt bearing a large Mario logo.
He initially fled the scene on foot and was later believed to have escaped in a Chevy Malibu.
Authorities have since confirmed that the suspect is in custody.
The Walmart was placed on lockdown as officers conducted a systematic sweep of the building to ensure the safety of shoppers and employees.
The scene remains secure as investigators from Evergreen Park Police, the Cook County Sheriff’s Office, and regional task forces continue processing evidence and interviewing witnesses.
At this time, the motive for the shooting remains under investigation, and police have not confirmed whether the suspect and victims were acquainted.
Witnesses described moments of panic and confusion as customers ran for cover or fled through emergency exits when gunfire erupted inside the store.
Authorities are urging anyone with information, photos, or video footage related to the incident to contact the Evergreen Park Police Department.
The investigation is ongoing.
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — Hundreds of students and community members are mourning the death of Erik Spencer, who was fatally shot at a shopping center in Jefferson City on November 1.
Authorities have confirmed Spencer’s death but have not yet released details regarding the individual responsible for the shooting.
Multiple witness accounts suggest the shooter may have been a white male, reportedly described by some as a possible off-duty police officer.
According to witnesses, the incident occurred as Erik and his girlfriend were leaving a store when a verbal argument broke out between them.
The male individual allegedly intervened, despite being told that the situation was under control.
Moments later, witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots, striking Erik.
Friends and witnesses at the scene stated that Erik did not pose any threat to the shooter and that the confrontation escalated unnecessarily.
Law enforcement agencies have not confirmed the shooter’s identity, whether he is affiliated with law enforcement, or if he has been detained or turned himself in.
The Jefferson City Police Department and local investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Community members have since gathered for vigils and memorials to honor Erik’s memory as the investigation remains active and ongoing.