Police in Wisconsin have confirmed two deaths as a result of shootings at gas stations in Racine County on Tuesday morning.
Police say that the initial shooting occurred around 7:30 a.m. at a Pilot Travel Center in Caledonia, Wisconsin, when a 32 year old man “viciously executed” a 22 year old man who was filling up at the gas station.
The shooter fired on another person driving in the Pilot parking lot before driving off. That person wasn’t hurt.
Police say that the shooter then drove to a Mobile gas station about two miles away and approached another person filling up on gas.
According to the Racine County Sheriff Christopher Schmaling, the person who was filling up at the Mobile station happened to be an undercover investigator who had 21 years of experience working for the Racine County Sheriff’s Office.
“The suspect quickly approached the investigator with a gun drawn and began to shoot at him at a close distance. The investigator and suspect both exchanged gunfire. The suspect was struck multiple times and died as a result of his injuries,” Schmaling said.
The undercover investigator was also hit by gunfire and was taken to a nearby hospital. He is reportedly conscious and alert.
“It should be noted, ladies and gentlemen, this is 7:30 in the morning at this Mobil station. It was bustling with activity. People getting their gas. People getting their morning cup of coffee. There is no doubt in my mind the quick, heroic actions of our investigator saved lives today,” Schmaling said in a news conference.
The motivation for the shooter’s actions remains unclear. The incident remains under investigation.