Clewiston police are investigating after officers responded to the Walmart on West Sugarland Highway for reports of an active shooter Friday evening.
According to the Clewiston Police Department, no one was shot in the incident, and it has a suspect in custody.
Around 6:40 p.m., Clewiston police and the Hendry County Sheriff’s Office responded to the Walmart.
Officers learned a man in a green hoodie, later identified as 21-year-old Jiren Tyleak Thicklin, was involved in a verbal argument with other customers in the male clothing section of the store.
According to the Clewiston Police Department, Thicklin pulled out a firearm and fired five to six rounds towards the victims.
“I saw everyone around me had their kids, and they were just ducking and running, leaving their carts, leaving the groceries, and started running towards the door. I was holding my daughter, and I just ducked and I also started running,” Everett Neely told NBC2.
Thicklin then fled on foot and was caught by a Hendry County deputy near the Walmart’s automotive section.
Police said a Glock 22 firearm was found in his waistband.
Thicklin was arrested, charged with two counts of attempted homicide, and taken to the Hendry County Jail. He’s being held without bond.
The Clewiston Police Department said this is an active investigation. According to HCSO, the store hired deputies to help patrol the store because of the shooting.
Holding Responsible Parties Accountable in Shooting Cases
If you or a loved one has been the victim of a shooting, holding the responsible parties accountable is a critical part of the healing process. Whether the shooter is an individual or a corporation, such as a bar or restaurant that served alcohol to an intoxicated person who then committed a shooting, Ovadia Law Group can help. Our team works diligently to identify all responsible parties and pursue them for the damages they’ve caused. We know that securing justice in shooting cases often requires persistence, but we are committed to helping you get the accountability you deserve. Call us today at 1-800-674-9396 for a free consultation, and let’s begin the journey toward justice together.
Source: nbc-2