Amarillo Police and several other agencies were called to the Walmart at 4215 Canyon Drive at about 11:15 a.m. There were reports of an armed man inside who took one or more hostages.
At about 12:45 p.m. police said, “Suspect has been shot by APD SWAT and is apparently dead. Hostages inside are safe.”
Several hours after the incident police identified the suspect as Mohammad Moghaddam, 54.
Before the death of the suspect, Amarillo PD said there was a report of shots fired.
Also before the death of the suspect, APD said, “At this time we have NO confirmed gunshot victims at Wal-Mart. Officers are inside. No shooting ongoing at this moment.”
APD said it appeared to be a case of workplace violence. Police believe the hostage-taker was an employee of Walmart.
Reporter Jackie Kingston with KAMR reported, “Witnesses at the scene tell me they were evacuated and many people ran out of the store.”
One eyewitness interviewed live by KAMR said one shot was fired and 100 people were in the store at the time.
Residents were asked to avoid the area.
Note: Officials initially incorrectly identified the suspect as Mohammad Moghaddan, 45. His updates spelling and age have been reflected in this article.
