BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KERO) — The Walmart in East Bakersfield was evacuated Monday, as officers rushed to the scene after reports of possible shots fired outside the store.
Around 1 p.m., Bakersfield Police responded to reports of shots fired at the Walmart Supercenter located on 2601 Fashion Plaza.
According to a statement from the BPD, "An on-duty California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation Parole Agent was in the area, heard the shots and responded. The CDCR Parole Agent was directed by witnesses to the suspect, Rodolfo Romo (31), who had fled into the business. Romo was taken into custody by the Parole Agent."
The BPD said that Romo fired several shots from a handgun into the air in the parking lot of the Walmart, then discarded the weapon when it jammed. Romo then fled into the Walmart.
Romo was arrested and the gun was recovered at the scene. Officials say it is unknown if the shooting was directed at a person, but no injuries were reported.
Roma faces charges of reckless discharge of a firearm, and associated weapon violations.
The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to call BPD at 327-7111.
