Police: Arizona Walmart shooting was self-defense
PHOENIX (AP) — A man who shot and killed another man inside a suburban Phoenix Walmart opened fire in self-defense, Chandler police said Monday.
According to Chandler police, Kyle Wayne Quadlin, 25, shot Kriston Charles Belinte Chee, 36, following a fight at a service counter Sunday afternoon.
Detectives reviewing surveillance video report the two men fought in the store before the shooting Sunday afternoon.
Quadlin told police he pulled his gun in self-defense.
"Mr. Quadlin was losing the fight and indicated he 'was in fear for his life,' so he pulled his gun and shot Mr. Belinte Chee," police said in a statement.
Belinte Chee was taken to a hospital where he was pronounced dead, police said. Investigators said the pair did not know each other before the shooting.
Authorities said Quadlin remained at the store for a little while following the shooting and then fled. Police found him after a family member called authorities to report his whereabouts.
Quadlin was not booked in the case and Chandler police said they will submit their investigation for review to the Maricopa County Attorney's Office.
Walmart spokeswoman Dianna Gee says the retailer is working with police to provide them any information they might find useful. She said the company's "thoughts and prayers are with all of those involved."
In the meantime, Walmart said it is sending crisis counselors to the store to talk with employees.
