Tumwater ‘hero’ speaks out for the first time after Walmart shooting

The armed civilian referred to as a “hero” recently spoke out for the first time since shooting a carjacking suspect at a Walmart in Tumwater. Pastor David George previously chose to remain anonymous for his family and church. Now hoping to clear the air, he described the events leading up the shooting.

RELATED: Armed civilian took down shooter at Tumwater Walmart

“I heard shots fired near the back of the store,” George said. “I was concerned for my own family, and I sought to find them and exit the building. It was at this point the gunman passed by waving and pointing his gun.”

George followed the suspect outside and saw him attempt to hijack a car while firing two shots into the driver’s side.

“When the driver did not and could not respond to his threats, he began to travel in the direction that I thought my family to be,” George said. The suspect then threatened another person in trying to take their vehicle, which prompted George to move into position for a shot.

“It was at this point that I left cover and moved to intercept the gunman,” George said. “He entered the vehicle which I considered an even bigger threat, and I fired to stop the shooter.”

George holds a concealed carry permit and has received active shooter training. After realizing the suspect was incapacitated, he moved to help the previous gunshot victim at the Tumwater Walmart.

In addition to working as a pastor at Oakville Assembly of God church, George is also an EMT and volunteer firefighter. While visibly shaken during the press conference, he nonetheless feels that he had no choice in subduing the gunman, who later died at the scene.

“I am grieved that the shooter’s reckless actions endangered numerous individuals and demanded he be stopped before doing more harm,” George said. “I acted on Sunday to protect my family and others from the gunman, and his display of obvious deadly intent. This is in accordance with both my training as an emergency responder, my calling as a pastor, a husband, a father, and a grandfather.”

Tumwater suspect believed responsible for six attempted carjackings

The gunman has been identified as 44-year-old Tim O. Day of McCleary, Washington. He is believed to be responsible for least six attempted carjackings. Two victims were injured, including a teenager who received minor injuries, and a father who is currently in critical condition at Harborview Medical Center.

George has been cleared of any wrongdoing.

“I carry a firearm for the same reason I carry a first aid bag, hoping to never have to use them, but always being prepared nonetheless.”

A GoFundMe has been created for one of the victims. Donations can be made here.

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