Allen Outlets Shooting: Officer who killed gunman processing tragedy
ALLEN, Texas - The Allen police officer who killed the gunman in Saturday’s mass shooting at Allen Premium Outlets is asking for privacy.
The officer has not yet been publicly identified.
An attorney who represents him said he’d like to maintain that anonymity as he processes the tragedy.
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"The officer sprinted towards high-power rifle fire as everyone else ran away. He’s a brave servant with a gentle heart and embodies the best the law enforcement profession has to offer. He’s doing well and would appreciate privacy as he continues to process this life-altering tragedy," said Zack Horn, his attorney.
The officer was at Allen Premium Outlets Saturday for another call and responded as soon as the shooting started.
He reportedly took down the shooter two minutes after calling for backup.
"He heard gunshots, went to the gunshots, engaged the suspect and neutralized the suspect," said Allen Police Chief Brian Harvey on Saturday.
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The suspect in the Allen Premium Outlets shooting has been identified as 33-year-old Mauricio Garcia.
Eight other people were killed in the shooting including three children. Several more were injured and a few remain hospitalized in critical condition.
"We will never know how many lives were saved by the swift actions of our first responders. What we do know is that we owe a debt of gratitude to first responders that ran toward the gunfire and acted swiftly to neutralize the threat," said U.S. Congressman Keith Self, who represents Allen.
The FBI is still sorting through evidence to try to determine a motive.