A man was fatally shot outside a Peoria, Arizona sports bar after opening fire on the establishment and wounding a patron. Two armed citizens intervened in self-defense, ending the threat before more people could be hurt.

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PEORIA, AZ (3-minute read) — A late-night disturbance at a Peoria sports bar turned deadly when a man who had been asked to leave returned with a firearm and opened fire. The incident, which occurred just before midnight at the Deli Sports Bar near Loop 101 and Peoria Avenue, left the gunman dead after a shootout with two armed bystanders who stepped in to stop the threat.

Peoria Police have identified the deceased shooter as 46-year-old Mario Franco of El Mirage. According to police reports, Franco was intoxicated and refused multiple requests to leave the bar. An employee called 911 for assistance, but before officers arrived, Franco went to his car, retrieved a handgun, and began firing shots—some into the air, others into the bar. One person inside was struck in the leg.

Two men sitting nearby on a park bench witnessed the shooting and took action. Both were legally armed and, according to police, acted in defense of others when Franco pointed his firearm in their direction. A brief gunfight ensued, resulting in Franco being shot in the chest. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The two armed citizens were unharmed and fully cooperated with the authorities.

Police stated that when they arrived, the two men were still maintaining control of the situation, their firearms pointed toward Franco’s BMW sedan, where he had collapsed in the passenger seat. Both were detained and interviewed but were later released. Officer Kristopher Babros commended their quick response, which likely prevented further injuries.

The bar patron shot in the leg was treated and released from the hospital. Authorities confirmed that there is no ongoing threat to the public.

The Importance of Responsible Concealed Carry

This incident highlights the critical role that responsibly armed citizens can play in active shooting situations. While concealed carriers are not law enforcement officers, their presence and preparedness can often be the decisive factor in stopping violent threats before they escalate.

Safety Tip: Always carry your firearm legally and train regularly to respond safely and effectively to threats. Know your state’s self-defense laws and never escalate a situation unnecessarily.