Rite Aid shooting victim was an employee who was shot while trying to stop a shoplifter

GLASSELL PARK, LOS ANGELES (KABC) – The man who was killed in a Rite-Aid in Glassell Park on Thursday night was a store worker who was gunned down by a shoplifter he was facing, friends say and officials.

Friends and family held an emotional vigil on Friday for Miguel Penaloza, describing him as a caring man who helped his colleagues and worked to support his parents. He was also planning to quit his job soon and had already given his notice.

The shooting took place just before 9 p.m. Thursday inside the 4000 block store on Eagle Rock Boulevard. Police searched the area for the suspects, but no arrests were made.

The victim died at the scene, officials said.

Man shot dead inside Rite Aid store, 2 suspects on the run

Dozens of colleagues, friends and family gathered to remember the dedicated store employee, many of whom brought candles and flowers.

“Very affectionate. He always had a smile on his face,” said colleague Lesly Garcia. “He always talked about his family, his parents. He lived with his parents and looked after his parents. He had two jobs to support his parents.”

A friend and former colleague said he did not feel safe working in the store.

“I was the closing supervisor and we always had people coming – stealing alcohol and beer, beer runs and unfortunately there were only two of us sometimes,” said David Cruz.

He and others say security is an issue in the store and they hope something can be done to prevent further tragedies.