Concealed-Carry Hero Stops Armed Shoplifter Outside Illinois Walgreens

In the early hours of the morning, a confrontation outside a Walgreens store in Calumet City, Illinois, escalated into a fatal incident involving an alleged shoplifter and a concealed-carrying employee. The store, located in the 500 block of Torrence Avenue, became the scene of a tense encounter when employees confronted two individuals suspected of shoplifting.

The suspects, a 42-year-old male and a 48-year-old female, reportedly took items without paying. Employees managed to retrieve the merchandise from the female suspect, who then fled the scene on foot. However, the situation took a dangerous turn when the male suspect pulled out a handgun during the confrontation.

In response, a Walgreens employee, who was also a security guard and held a valid concealed-carry license, fired at the suspect. The suspect, identified as Mario Almendarez of Chicago, was hit in the chest. Authorities later found Almendarez driving a vehicle on Sibley Boulevard near Yates Avenue. He was transported to a trauma center where he succumbed to his injuries.

The incident has sparked a wave of reactions on social media, with many expressing support for the employee’s actions.

“He should be promoted to store manager,” one commenter remarked. Another added, “He should get a medal.”

The Calumet City Police Department has launched an investigation into the shooting and is encouraging anyone with information to reach out to them at 708-868-2500.

The event has generated a significant amount of discussion online, with nearly 200 comments on WMAQ’s Facebook post about the incident. Many users have voiced their approval of the employee’s actions, with comments such as “Another one for the good guys” and “Employee of the year!” reflecting the general sentiment.

“Awesome!!!!!!” exclaimed another user, emphasizing the need for more actions like this. However, there is a concern that Walgreens management might not support the employee’s decision, with one commenter suggesting, “Although kooky lame woke and perpetually incompetent Walgreens [management] will probably fire the guy.”

In a final note, a user succinctly captured the mood with, “F around and found out. Only way they’ll learn.”

Watch a local news report about the incident below:

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