The Twin Falls Police Department in Twin Falls, Idaho, released new details on Monday (August 3rd) regarding the shooting incident that took place at an In-N-Out restaurant in the city last Saturday. The suspect, identified as 24-year-old Chad Williams, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound after the incident. The exact motive behind the crime is still unclear, and the FBI is assisting in the investigation.
Police Chief Matthew Hicks stated that on Saturday afternoon, shortly before 2:30 pm, multiple 911 calls were received by the police, with dispatchers even hearing screams and gunshots in the background. Emergency personnel quickly responded to the scene.
The shooting resulted in three fatalities, including the suspect, and seven injuries. Chief Hicks mentioned that two of the injured individuals have been treated and discharged, three are in stable condition, and two are in critical condition. The identities of the deceased have not been released yet, as authorities are in the process of notifying their families.
Investigators believe that Williams acted alone, and the motive behind the shooting remains unclear. Chief Hicks debunked rumors circulating on social media about a second suspect, emphasizing that such information is false.
Chief Hicks added, “We understand that there are many questions, and we will do our best to provide timely responses. However, some details cannot be disclosed at this stage as premature disclosure may impede the ongoing investigation.”
At the time of the incident, the suspect was wielding an AR-style rifle, indiscriminately firing at individuals and vehicles (including a Tesla) both inside and outside the restaurant and on the drive-thru lane. An off-duty Idaho State Police officer and an armed civilian decisively drew their weapons and fired back, successfully forcing the assailant away from the restaurant and stopping further harm.
Investigators pointed out that the prompt intervention of the two individuals disrupted the shooter, preventing additional casualties. The suspect’s body was later found near the restaurant, confirming his death by suicide.
Chief Hicks highly praised the heroic actions of the two individuals, stating, “We want to commend the off-duty officer and the courageous civilian for their brave deeds. Their actions prevented the situation from escalating and forced the suspect to retreat, saving more lives.”
The identity of the courageous civilian has been revealed as Jordan Salinas, 35 years old, from Kimberly, Idaho. Salinas recalled exchanging fire with the suspect for about two to three minutes before Williams began to retreat. When sirens sounded in the Blue Lakes area and a large number of officers arrived at the scene, he stepped aside to cooperate with the police takeover.
Currently, investigators are continuing to gather evidence at the scene and interview witnesses. The FBI is assisting in the investigation and has established a digital reporting platform, urging the public to provide any photos, videos, or relevant leads from the scene.
An official named Robert stated, “We have devoted all resources to assist the Twin Falls Police Department, utilizing all investigative and intelligence tools at our disposal to solve the case.”
Furthermore, Lori Stewart from the Twin Falls County Sheriff’s Office public information officer mentioned that a crisis counseling team will continue to provide psychological counseling and assistance to individuals affected by witnessing or being impacted by the shooting incident.
(Adapted from reports by NBC NEWS and Idaho Statesman)