A shooting at the Walmart in Durango on Thursday afternoon left two people hospitalized, including the suspected gunman, in what police are investigating as an attempted murder-suicide.
The incident occurred around 4:30 p.m. when shots were reported inside the store, prompting a large-scale response from the Durango Police Department, the La Plata County Sheriff’s Office, and the Durango Fire Protection District.
According to Amanda Garrison, spokeswoman for the Durango Police Department, both individuals wounded in the shooting were transported to Mercy Hospital. One of those hospitalized has been identified as the suspected shooter.
“The situation is contained and there are no ongoing threats to the public,” Garrison said in a statement, adding that investigators are still working to determine the exact circumstances of the shooting, including how the suspect sustained their injuries.
Dispute Escalates Into Gunfire
Early findings indicate that the violence stemmed from an argument between a couple inside the Walmart. Police say the dispute escalated, leading to gunfire and injuries. The case is being investigated as an attempted murder-suicide.
Heavy Emergency Response
The gunfire triggered a rapid law enforcement and emergency services response. By 5 p.m., officers and paramedics were still on the scene, securing the area and treating victims.
Authorities immediately urged the public to avoid the Walmart and surrounding area to allow first responders to work without obstruction.
“We ask the public to avoid the area so first responders can work safely,” the Durango Police Department said in a news release. “Additional, confirmed details will be released as soon as they are available.”
Investigation Ongoing
As of Thursday evening, police had not released the names of those involved, nor details on their current medical conditions. The Walmart remained closed while investigators processed the scene.
Officials said updates will be provided as the investigation develops.
