On Thursday, July 23, 2015, a tragic shooting occurred at a Walmart store in Lafayette, Indiana. The incident resulted in the deaths of two innocent people and the shooter himself.
What Happened?
The shooting began around 6:30 PM local time when a man identified as 59-year-old Richard J. Wallace entered the Walmart and began firing shots. The store was crowded with shoppers, and chaos ensued as people tried to escape.
The gunfire resulted in the deaths of two people, identified as 44-year-old Joseph A. Cox and 65-year-old Walter Lee Burnette Jr. Wallace then turned the gun on himself and took his own life.
Who Was Richard J. Wallace?
Richard J. Wallace was a resident of Lafayette, Indiana. He was a former employee of Subaru of Indiana Automotive and had a history of mental illness.
According to reports, Wallace had been involved in a dispute with his former employer and had filed a lawsuit against them. It is unclear if this was a motive for the shooting.
How Did the Community Respond?
The Lafayette community was deeply affected by the shooting and came together to mourn the loss of the two victims. A candlelight vigil was held at the Walmart store on the evening of July 24.
In addition, the Lafayette Police Department and other local agencies were praised for their quick response to the shooting and their efforts to keep the community safe.
What Were the Consequences?
The shooting had a profound impact on the families of the victims, as well as the community at large. It also sparked a national conversation about gun control and mental illness.
In the aftermath of the shooting, Walmart announced that it would be increasing its security measures at stores across the country.
Conclusion
The Walmart shooting in Lafayette, Indiana was a tragic event that shook the community and sparked a national conversation. The victims, Joseph A. Cox and Walter Lee Burnette Jr., will be remembered for their lives and the impact they had on those around them.