Madera Community Devastated as 34-Year-Old Walgreens Employee Erick Velazquez Tragically Shot and Killed in Senseless Attack by Suspect Who Drove Over an Hour to Commit the Crime
MADERA, CA – The community of Madera is grappling with the devastating loss of Erick Velazquez, a dedicated employee, loving husband, and father of two, who tragically lost his life in a senseless shooting at a local Walgreens on Monday night. Velazquez, just 34 years old, was shot and killed in an unprovoked attack inside the Walgreens store located on Cleveland Avenue. The suspect, identified as 30-year-old Narciso Gallardo Fernandez of Pixley, drove over an hour to carry out the violent act.
The Fatal Incident
The shooting occurred just before 9:30 p.m. on Monday, April 1, 2025, when Fernandez entered the Walgreens store with the intent to cause harm. According to authorities, Fernandez approached Velazquez, who was working behind the counter, and opened fire without warning. Velazquez was struck multiple times, and despite efforts from bystanders and emergency responders to save him, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Witnesses describe the scene as chaotic and terrifying, with several customers and employees present in the store at the time of the attack. Many rushed to help Velazquez after the shooting, while others called 911.
“This is just so surreal,” said Jessica Hernandez, a frequent customer at Walgreens. “To think that something like this could happen in a place we all go to every day—it’s terrifying.”
A Family in Mourning
Erick Velazquez was known for his unwavering work ethic and love for his family. He leaves behind a wife, Maria Velazquez, and two young children. Family members have expressed their shock and heartbreak at the sudden and violent loss of their loved one.
“He was everything to us. A wonderful father, a devoted husband,” said Maria Velazquez. “I can’t believe this happened. I still don’t understand why this happened. He didn’t deserve this.”
Erick’s co-workers at Walgreens also expressed their grief, recalling his kind nature and dedication to his job.
“He was always there when you needed him,” said Lisa Tran, a colleague of Velazquez. “Erick was the type of person who’d help anyone, no questions asked. It’s just hard to believe he’s gone.”
Suspect Arrested and Under Investigation
Authorities quickly identified the suspect as Narciso Gallardo Fernandez, a 30-year-old man from Pixley, who reportedly drove more than an hour to commit the crime. Fernandez was arrested near the scene after being confronted by police shortly after the shooting. Law enforcement officials are still trying to determine the motive behind the attack.
“It’s unclear why this suspect targeted Mr. Velazquez, but we’re doing everything we can to piece together what led to this senseless act of violence,” said Madera Police Chief Tom Henson. “This is a tragic loss for our community, and our thoughts are with the family and friends of Mr. Velazquez as they cope with this devastating event.”
Fernandez is currently in police custody, and authorities are continuing their investigation into the incident. The suspect is facing murder charges, and law enforcement is looking into whether there was any prior connection between Fernandez and Velazquez.
Community Reaction and Support
The shooting has left the Madera community in shock, with many people struggling to make sense of the senseless violence. Local organizations have already begun rallying around the Velazquez family, offering support and resources during this difficult time.
Madera City Councilmember Sofia Martinez expressed her condolences to the family and called for unity during this time of grief. “This is a tragedy that has shaken us all. Erick was a part of our community, and now, we must stand together to support his family and ensure justice is served,” she said in a public statement.
A memorial service is being planned for Velazquez, where friends, family, and the community will come together to celebrate his life and mourn his tragic loss.
The Need for Justice
As the investigation continues, the Madera community is holding its breath, waiting for answers about the motives behind such a senseless crime. Family and friends of Velazquez are calling for justice for the man they knew and loved.
“It’s so hard to understand why someone would do this,” said Ricardo Velazquez, Erick’s younger brother. “We just want to make sure he gets justice, and we want to know why this happened. He didn’t deserve this.”
The Madera Police Department is urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. Detectives are following up on leads and reviewing surveillance footage from the store to gather more information.
If you have any information, please contact the Madera Police Department at (559) 675-4200 or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers.
A Community in Grief
The shooting death of Erick Velazquez has left a profound impact on the Madera community, which is now mourning the loss of a beloved father, husband, and friend. As the investigation unfolds, the community continues to rally around the Velazquez family, hoping for justice and answers in the wake of this heart-wrenching tragedy.