A harrowing event at an In-N-Out Burger in Twin Falls, Idaho, ended with fewer casualties thanks to the actions of a bystander. Jordan Salinas, a 35-year-old healthcare worker, intervened when a gunman opened fire on patrons at the restaurant on Saturday afternoon. Salinas described his reaction as an automatic response driven by training he committed to following a 2021 shooting at a mall in Boise.
Salinas was at the restaurant with his girlfriend when he heard the gunfire and saw people fleeing. He drew his own weapon and engaged the attacker, who was identified as 24-year-old Chad Williams. Law enforcement officials, including Twin Falls police chief Matthew Hicks and sheriff Jack Johnson, praised Salinas for his role in the incident. Authorities stated that the return fire helped divert the shooter, which prevented additional victims from being harmed.
Williams ultimately died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The attack resulted in the deaths of three people and injured seven others. Two of those injured are in critical condition, while others are stable or have been discharged from the hospital. Salinas, who works as a caregiver for his brother, explained that his decision to carry a firearm and pursue training came from a desire to be prepared for the reality that public spaces can be targeted.
This incident has renewed conversation about the role of civilians during mass shooting events. While some individuals on the scene attempted to distract the gunman by shouting from their vehicles, the intervention by Salinas remains a focal point for authorities. As of this week, there have been at least 280 mass shootings in the United States this year according to data from the Gun Violence Archive, keeping the issue at the forefront of national discussion.