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PHOENIX (KSAZ) - FOX 10 Phoenix is learning more about the young person who was killed in a shooting at a convenience store on Wednesday.
According to police, the suspect, identified by police on Thursday as a 52-year-old man, did not know the victim, identified as 24-year-old Efran Hernandez, and at this point, authorities have not established a motive.
The incident, according to police, happened at a Circle K near 19th Avenue and Grant Street. As police try to figure out a motive, family and friends are struggling to grasp onto this devastating reality.
'He was murdered," said a man who spoke in Spanish. The man did not want to be identified. "I don't have words to say the pain that I feel for him."
With no idea of what would come, Hernandez walked into the convenience just before 10:00 a.m., while on a quick break from work. Later, Hernandez, a father of two young girls, a husband, and a friend, would be shot dead.
"His personality. I loved him a lot. He was always there for you, anything you needed," said the man.
Hernandez's best friend was wiping heavy tears on Friday, as he was outside of the convenience store where Hernandez died.
"It's complicated," said Hector Villarreal, a friend of Hernandez. "We're here, and it brings emotion."
When police got to the store Wednesday morning, they learned the suspect was inside along with Hernandez, who was already shot. An employee was also hiding in an office. Police tried negotiating with the shooter, who reportedly stated he was armed and would kill officers if they came in. A decision was eventually made to enter, in an effort to get to Hernandez and save his life. Once inside, officers shot the suspect because they say he ignored commands, and reached for his waistband.
By the time officers got to Hernandez, he was dead.
"He always treated people well, even if he didn't know them," said the man. "He would give the shirt off his back to anyone."
YouCaring page for Efren Hernandez
https://www.youcaring.com/karolynehernandez-1186746