A man recently fired from his job at Chicago’s Navy Pier returned to the site and fatally shot two of his former coworkers on Tuesday, police said.
The suspect, who has not been publicly identified, remained on the loose Wednesday. He was employed by Levy Restaurants, a backend food and beverage provider, local ABC affiliate WLS reported.
“We’re absolutely devastated by today’s tragic events and the shocking loss of two of our family members,” the company told the outlet. “Our hearts break for their families and loved ones, whose lives are forever changed.”
Lamont Richardson, 51, was identified by police as one of the victims. The other victim was identified only as a 47-year-old man.
The suspect was fired on Oct. 14, authorities said. He returned Tuesday afternoon and walked into an area away from the main tourist thoroughfares, according to investigators.
“As a former employer of the subcontractor, he had access,” Navy Pier COO Brian Murphy told WLS. “He knew how to get to that back loading dock area.”
The shooting at the popular tourist attraction prompted lockdowns of the surrounding areas, which were slowly cleared as cops swarmed the scene.
“I was a little nervous, you know, when you think about the high school shootings,” souvenir shop worker Stephanie Knowles told The Associated Press. “I’ve never had to live through that, so this was the closest thing that I’ve had to that experience.”
Investigators said the shooting was targeted and the suspect was not a threat to the public.
Navy Pier is known for its iconic Ferris wheel and also features shops and other family attractions, as well as several restaurants. It was open again on Wednesday.
With News Wire Services
