An armed bystander is being praised by law enforcement officials after intervening during a shooting at an In-N-Out Burger restaurant in southern Idaho. His actions, along with those of an off-duty state trooper, are credited with diverting the gunman and potentially saving lives.
Details of the Incident
Jordan Salinas, a 35-year-old healthcare worker, confronted the gunman after arriving at the restaurant’s parking lot with his girlfriend. He witnessed people fleeing the establishment and heard gunfire, prompting him to take action with his semiautomatic pistol. Salinas located the gunman, identified as Chad Williams, near the drive-thru window where Williams was shooting at vehicles, and fired his weapon.
The aftermath of the shooting was tragic, with four fatalities, including the gunman, and seven injuries. Authorities confirmed Williams died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Two injured individuals received hospital treatment and were released, while others remained in stable or critical condition.
Official Recognition and Statements
Twin Falls County Sheriff Jack Johnson expressed gratitude towards Salinas and the off-duty state trooper for their intervention. Their identities were initially withheld. “I want to extend my deepest thanks to the off-duty trooper and the good citizen that engaged the shooter,” said Johnson, acknowledging their role in diverting and potentially saving lives.
Twin Falls Police Chief Matthew Hicks affirmed the off-duty officer and Salinas helped prevent further casualties by driving the suspect away from the scene. Authorities are actively investigating Williams’ motives, with his family cooperating fully.
Salinas’ Background and Response
Salinas revealed his training efforts began after a shooting incident at a Boise shopping mall in 2021, reflecting on potential threats involving his wheelchair-bound brother. Although he regularly trains and practices shooting, this incident marked the first time he directed his firearm at a human target.
On Facebook, Salinas expressed his commitment to sharing a detailed account of the event in the future. “For now, my heart remains with the victims, their families, and everyone affected by yesterday’s tragedy,” he wrote, thanking the public for support.
Impact on In-N-Out Community
An employee of In-N-Out was among the deceased. The chain’s owner, Lynsi Snyder, expressed profound grief and described the employee as a “beautiful Associate.” Snyder criticized the gunman, acknowledging the loss felt by the restaurant community. In-N-Out’s Chief Operating Officer Denny Warnick also conveyed heartbreak, emphasizing continued support for impacted families and ongoing cooperation with authorities.
The Twin Falls restaurant had only recently opened as part of the chain’s expansion into Idaho.
This story is developing, with more updates to follow.