Authorities search for suspect Jarid Haddock after the random attack at a Yakima supermarket.

Three people tragically lost their lives when a gunman opened fire at a supermarket in Yakima, Washington, on Tuesday. The attack occurred at the Circle K store at around 3:30am local time (11:30am GMT), with authorities stating that the suspect “just walked in and started shooting.”

Matt Murray, the police chief of Yakima, confirmed the fatalities after officers arrived at the scene. Security camera footage and witness reports are being reviewed, but authorities believe the attack appeared random with no prior conflict between the shooter and victims.

The suspect, identified as 21-year-old Jarid Haddock from Yakima County, remains on the run. Police have warned the public that he is armed and dangerous, having fled the scene in a vehicle heading towards the nearby community of Moxee.

“This is a dangerous person and it’s random, so there is a danger to the community,” Chief Murray said, confirming there is currently no clear motive behind the shooting. Authorities also discovered a second potential shooting scene across the street at another convenience store. Initially, it was believed the gunman may have fired into a car before stealing it, but further investigations suggest there may not have been a fourth victim.

The shooting marks another episode of gun violence as the United States continues to grapple with a rise in mass killings in the early months of 2023. Authorities are urging the public to stay vigilant as they continue their investigation into the incident.