Heroic Bystander and Off-Duty Trooper Intervene in Idaho Shooting

An armed bystander has been praised for his actions during a shooting incident at an In-N-Out Burger in southern Idaho. Law enforcement credits him with diverting the gunman and potentially saving lives. The Idaho Statesman identified Jordan Salinas, 35, a healthcare worker, as the individual who engaged the shooter.

Incident Details

Salinas recounted that he arrived at the restaurant’s parking lot with his girlfriend on Saturday afternoon. He noticed people fleeing through the doors and heard gunfire. Armed with a semiautomatic pistol, he approached the gunfire. He saw the gunman by the drive-thru window shooting at cars. Salinas fired his weapon at the gunman.

Salinas felt no fear during the incident. ‘There’s a task that needs to be done, and we’re the ones who need to do it,’ he stated. The incident ended with four fatalities, including the gunman, and seven others injured. Two injured individuals received hospital treatment and were discharged, while others remained in stable or critical condition.

Gunman Identified

Police identified the gunman as 24-year-old Chad Williams, who died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. During a news conference, Twin Falls County Sheriff Jack Johnson mentioned the involvement of a bystander and an off-duty state trooper in exchanging gunfire with the shooter, which forced him to seek cover.

‘I extend my deepest thanks to the off-duty trooper and the good citizen who confronted the shooter,’ said Sheriff Johnson. ‘Their actions diverted the shooter, undoubtedly saving many lives.’

Investigation Continues

Twin Falls Police Chief Matthew Hicks commented on the incident, noting that the actions of the bystander and trooper likely prevented additional casualties. Investigators are currently examining Williams’ motives, with cooperation from his family. They are working to gather a complete account of the circumstances leading to the shooting.

‘The Williams family has been in contact and are fully cooperating with law enforcement. Their hearts are also broken during this time,’ stated Hicks.

Authorities request anyone with information to contact the police.

Motivation for Training

Salinas trained extensively with firearms following a 2021 shooting at a Boise mall. Concerned for his brother, who uses a wheelchair, Salinas sought to prepare for potential threats. Although he practiced shooting regularly, this was his first experience confronting a gunman.

Following the shooter’s retreat and the arrival of police, Salinas stepped back, allowing the officers to handle the situation.

In a Facebook post, Salinas expressed gratitude for the support received from the community. He plans to share more about the incident at a later time. He conveyed his sympathy to the victims and their families, requesting continued prayers for their recovery.

Tragic Loss at In-N-Out

Among the deceased was an In-N-Out employee. Owner Lynsi Snyder expressed deep sorrow for the loss of her associate, who was serving customers at the time. Snyder assured that the company would mourn alongside the families affected and offer prayers for their healing.

Denny Warnick, In-N-Out’s Chief Operating Officer, released a statement to Newsweek acknowledging the tragedy and affirming their collaboration with local authorities.

The Twin Falls location of the California-based chain had opened recently on July 24. The kitchen functions as a recent extension of the chain into Idaho.