A Tucson store employee fatally shot a man after allegedly being assaulted in a store parking lot. Authorities are investigating the incident as a possible case of self-defense, with the final decision pending review by the Pima County Attorney’s Office.

TUCSON, AZ (2-minute read) — A fatal shooting occurred Friday evening in Tucson, Arizona, after a reported physical altercation between a store employee and a customer. The incident unfolded around 6 p.m. in the 900 block of West Irvington Road, where 39-year-old Michael Alex Montano Mendoza was shot and killed following what police say was an assault on the 24-year-old store employee.

According to the Tucson Police Department, Mendoza entered the business and later moved into the parking lot with the employee. It was there that the alleged assault occurred. Investigators say the employee fired his firearm in response to the attack, striking Mendoza. Despite attempts at life-saving measures, Mendoza was pronounced dead at the scene.

The employee, whose identity has not been publicly released, sustained minor injuries and was treated at a local hospital. After the incident, he called 911 to report the shooting and remained at the scene. No charges have been filed at this time, but the case has been handed over to the Pima County Attorney’s Office for further review.

Understanding Arizona Self-Defense Laws

Arizona is a “stand your ground” state, which means individuals are not required to retreat before using force if they are legally allowed to be in the location and reasonably believe force is necessary to prevent death or serious harm. If the employee’s actions are determined to be in line with state self-defense statutes, he may not face charges. However, such cases are carefully evaluated by prosecutors, especially when deadly force is used.

This shooting underscores the importance of knowing not only how to properly carry and handle a firearm, but also the legal boundaries of self-defense. Even when justified, these situations carry significant legal and emotional consequences.

Safety Tip: Always know your state’s self-defense laws and legal obligations when carrying a firearm. A justified use of force still requires legal scrutiny, and the wrong decision can have lasting consequences.