A Home Depot loss prevention employee who was shot and killed inside of a California store during a confrontation with a shoplifting suspect on Tuesday was getting married this summer.
Blake Mohs, 26, intervened to stop 32-year-old Benicia Knapps from stealing at the store in Pleasanton, California, when he was shot during the struggle, according to the Pleasanton Police Department.
“During the investigation, detectives determined Mohs confronted a female shoplifter who resisted and shot him. The suspect, Benicia Knapps, 32, ran to a getaway car driven by a male suspect, David Guillory, 31,” said police in a statement. “Knapp’s child was also inside the vehicle. After they fled the scene, a handgun was recovered in a nearby intersection. Around 2:30 p.m., the two suspects were detained by Alameda County Sheriff’s Office deputies, and the child was released to relatives.”
In the news: Woman Who Was Shot And Killed On I-4 In Plant City Identified, Police Looking For Toyota Prius
Police say Blake was a well-known member of the community who helped keep customers and staff safe.
He was involved in community youth programs and planned to be married in the summer. He is survived by his parents, brother, and fiancée.
“I am devastated by the loss of Blake Mohs in yesterday’s senseless shooting. Through his service to Tri-Valley organizations, Blake was a model for others. To have a life cut short is heartbreaking and infuriating. I’m joined by the City Council in offering our deepest condolences to Blake’s family, friends, loved ones, and to everyone impacted by this tragedy,” said Mayor Karla Brown.
Blake Mohs’ parents spoke out on their son’s death in an interview with KGO.
Lorie Mohs said her son and his fiancee had known each other for years before falling in love.
In the news: State Urges Court To Reject Florida Death Row Inmate Darryl Barwick’s Execution Appeal
“They looked at each other and they had seen each other for a long time, but then they saw each other differently and almost five years later they were planning a wedding and a future,” Lorie said. “Those were things that I really looked forward to with his future wife and children and participating in,” she said.
Lorie Mohs said her son went all the way with scouting, in 2014 he became an Eagle Scout, which is the highest honor in the organization.
The couple were planning their wedding for Aug. 12 at the camp where they met.
Android Users, Click To Download The Free Press App And Never Miss A Story. Follow Us On Facebook and Twitter. Signup for our free newsletter.
We can’t do this without your help; visit our GiveSendGo page and donate any dollar amount; every penny helps.