US Soldier Carried Kids To Safety During El Paso Walmart Shooting

A US soldier who reportedly carried children to safety during the El Paso Walmart has been labelled a hero.

Army specialist Glendon Oakley was shopping in a Foot Locker at Cielo Vista Mall, Texas, on Saturday, when a gunman opened fire on innocent bystanders.

Speaking to MSNBC, the 22-year-old said a child ran into the store and told people that a man had started shooting - but at first, Mr Oakley said he didn't believe him.

"Me and the guy that works there were like 'He's a kid' so we didn't believe him. I walked out the mall to go to Footlocker. I hear 'Bop! Bop!'"

He then pulled out his own licensed handgun and tried to find a safe place to hide before making his way out of the shopping mall.

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But on his way out, he came across a group of children with no parents in sight and says he just tried to get as many of them out as possible.

"They just dipped. So I ran with them. I just tried to make my way to the parking lot. I got my bag in my hand. I'm trying to pick them up, as many as I can, just run out. But they're so anxious, they're, like, jumping out of my hands."

However, when he made his way into the parking lot, Mr Oakley said he was confronted by an armed police officer who wasn't sure whether he was someone trying to help or, in fact, the shooter.

"When I got out, I guess one of the cops thought I was the shooter or something," he said. "So I had to show 'em my clip and stuff, show 'em I had my licence to carry. He said I was fine."

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He added: "There was a whole bunch of kids up in there, I just hoping nothing happened to the kids.

"I was just so worried about those kids man. I'm just worried about those kids. I wasn't really worried about myself. I just hope those kids are alright."

Since news of Mr Oakley's heroics began doing the rounds, people have taken to social media to praise him for potentially saving the lives of a number of children.

Sharing his interview on Twitter, one person said: "HERO! Active Duty member Glen Oakley, who was near the El Paso Walmart rushed to protect children during the shooting! Thank you and God Bless you"

A second wrote: "A real life superhero."

While another added: "What a honourable man."

At least 20 people were killed and at least 40 others injured, during the shooting at the El Paso Walmart. It's understood the suspect is currently in police custody.

Topics: Inspirational, Interesting, US News, crime

Dominic Smithers

Dominic graduated from the University of Leeds with a degree in French and History. Like you, Dom has often questioned how much use a second language has been. Well, after stints working at the Manchester Evening News, the Accrington Observer and the Macclesfield Express, along with never setting foot in France, he realised the answer is surprisingly little. But I guess, c'est la vie. Contact us at [email protected]

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