Walmart store manager Peter Marquez, 47, was shot and killed by a robber early Saturday morning. Phoenix police are looking for the suspect.
The shooter fled on foot into a residential area near the Walmart on 75th Avenue near McDowell Road.
According to police, “the suspect confronted two employees inside the store who were exchanging money into cash registers from a shopping cart. The suspect held the employees at gunpoint, grabbed the shopping cart and pushed it out the door.”
Marquez and another employee, who were both outside, started running toward the door. The suspect raised his gun and shot Marquez. , Thompson said.
Marquez was taken to a local hospital and pronounced dead.
Dianna Gee, Walmart spokeswoman said in a statement, “We are extremely saddened by what took place. Pete was well respected by his fellow associates. All those that worked with him always appreciated his commitment to family as well as his positive attitude. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this very difficult time. We are in close communications with them, trying to be as supportive as possible as they come to terms with their loss.”
The suspect is described as either a white or Hispanic male, in his 20s or 30s, thin build and between 5-feet, 7-inches and 5-feet, 9-inches tall. He was last seen armed with a handgun wearing a dark gray long-sleeved hoodie, blue jeans, dark shoes and sunglasses. The suspect may or may not have been wearing a face mask.
Phoenix police ask anyone with information that may lead to the suspect’s whereabouts to call 602-262-6141 or Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS (948-6377).