Police have arrested a man suspected of murdering two people in what they believe was a targeted shooting at a Chick-fil-A in Irving on Wednesday afternoon.
Authorities responded to the business in the 5300 block of N. MacArthur Blvd in the Las Colinas area around 4 p.m. following multiple 911 calls about a shooting that occurred, according to Officer Anthony Alexander with the Irving Police Department.
When officers arrived at the scene, they found two victims suffering from gunshot wounds inside the fast-food restaurant. Alexander did confirm that the shooting happened inside the building.
Both individuals were pronounced dead by EMTs who arrived at the establishment shortly after.
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Investigators with Irving Police said they gathered enough information to determine that the victims were targeted, and the suspect, identified as 37-year-old Oved Bernardo Mendoza Argueta, fled the scene before officers arrived.
According to police, Mendoza Argueta's spouse is an employee at the Chick-fil-A. She was a witness to the shooting, and she was able to positively identify Mendoza Argueta as the suspect.
Mendoza Argueta was booked into the Irving City Jail after 3 a.m. on Thursday. He has been charged with capital murder of multiple persons.
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As of 7:30 a.m. Thursday, Mendoza Argueta's booking information also included a hold by Immigration and Customs Enforcement. This hold, also known as an immigration detainer, is a notice issued to federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies informing them that ICE intends to assume custody of an individual who is currently in a law enforcement agency's custody.
One of the victims was identified as Patricia Portillo. The other victim's identify has not yet been released by law enforcement officials.
Texas Sky Ranger flew over the crime scene around 4:30 p.m., and several police units could be seen surrounding the fast-food restaurant on N. MacArthur Blvd.
Dozens of people, including individuals who appear to be Chick-fil-A employees, were also observed standing in the parking lot outside the establishment.
Alexander stated that the incident was isolated, and there was no threat to the public. Investigators said they have obtained surveillance footage to help find out who the suspected shooter is.
Officers ask people to avoid the crime scene area as they continue their investigation. Anyone who sees Mendoza Argueta is urged not to approach or attempt to apprehend him. Instead, call 911 immediately.
This developing story will be updated as more information becomes available.
