LOS FELIZ—The Trader Joe’s where a standoff turned deadly, will re-open its doors on Thursday, August 2.
Since the shooting on Saturday, July 21, the Los Feliz grocery store on Hyperion Avenue has been closed. One of the deaths that resulted from the shooting was that of former Trader Joe’s manager Melyda Corado, who was shot inside the store and died on the scene.
The suspect has been identified as Gene Evin Atkins, 28. Atkins engaged in a standoff with police, where he was shot in the arm and held customers inside the establishment hostage.
The SWAT team surrounded the building where after a three-hour standoff, Atkins surrendered to authorities.
Melyda’s brother, Albert Corado, tweeted: “I’m sad to say she didn’t make it. My baby sister. My world. I appreciate the retweets and the love. Please respect my family’s privacy as we are still coming to terms with this.”
Albert tweeted on Sunday, July 22, “I miss my sister. I wish this wasn’t happening. Feels good to be with family, though. My dad is doing his best to keep it together. I am, too. Family is coming to visit from as far away as Australia. #MelydaCorado you were immensely loved.”
On Tuesday, July 31, Trader Joe’s posted on its website an official statement about the Silver Lake’s store’s reopening. The statement notes that Trader Joe’s representatives have taken the time off to make some renovations to the store and will re-open Thursday at 8:00 a.m.
“To Our Valued Customers, while we remain heartbroken over the tragic death of Melyda Corado and the trauma our Crew Members and customers have suffered, we recognize that moving forward is an important part of supporting the healing of this community. While we move forward, we will never forget. And we remain forever grateful for the incredible outpouring of support from customers and Crew Members across the country.”
Written By Alexandra Del Rosario and Kiley Cuellar
