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By Jenna Sundel
News Reporter
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Police said a California man allegedly shot and killed a Walgreens employee because he had a "grudge" against pharmacies.
Narciso Gallardo Fernandez, 30, is accused of shooting Erick Velasquez at a Walgreens in Madera on Monday.
"We do know he has a general disdain or grudge against pharmacies, large-scale pharmacies by statements made. That is one of the reasons why Walgreens was selected," Madera Police Chief Giachino Chiaramonte told ABC News.
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Why It Matters
The shooting comes as public approval of the U.S. healthcare industry is declining. A December 2024 Gallup poll found that 54 percent of U.S. adults say the quality of healthcare is fair or poor.
Chiaramonte said he does not believe Monday's shooting was inspired by Luigi Mangione, who is accused of killing UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson last year.
What To Know
Fernandez allegedly went into the Walgreens with a handgun in his pocket. He is then accused of shooting out a security camera before firing at Velasquez at around 9:30 p.m.
Fernandez allegedly shot at other employees and customers as they fled the store. No one else was hit by the gunfire.
Police said Velasquez called 911 for help, but he was unable to speak when the dispatcher picked up. Officers and EMS personnel attempted lifesaving measures, but they were unsuccessful. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Officials found Fernandez reloading his gun in the parking lot and took him into custody. Prosecutors have filed charges of murder with a gun enhancement and attempted murder with a gun enhancement.
Chiaramonte told ABC News that Fernandez and Velasquez did not appear to know each other. Velasquez worked at Walgreens, but he was not a pharmacist. The pharmacy was also closed at the time, and Velasquez was not shot in the pharmacy area.
Police said the shooting was not gang-related.
A GoFundMe for Velasquez's family has raised over $29,000.
"He was always optimistic and always saw life with a positive attitude. He is survived by his wife and two young children," the fundraiser states.
What People Are Saying
Walgreens, in a statement obtained by ABC7 Los Angeles: "We are deeply saddened by last night's tragic event, which resulted in the death of one of our team members. Our thoughts and prayers are with their loved ones during this difficult time. The safety of our customers and team members is our top priority, and we are working with local authorities in their investigation. We are focused on supporting our team members and will be offering on-site counseling services over the next couple days."
What Happens Next
Fernandez pleaded not guilty to the charges on Wednesday. Officials are continuing to investigate the incident.
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