Victim, Suspects Identified in Alleged Home Depot Murder.
Home Depot employee Blake Mohs was shot and killed Tuesday while reportedly trying to stop a theft in progress inside a store in Pleasanton.
Pleasanton Police Department Press Release
***UPDATE 4/19***
Following a shooting that occurred at approximately 2:15 p.m. on Tuesday, April 18 inside Home Depot (6000 Johnson Drive), Pleasanton Police Department confirms the victim tragically died from his injuries. The victim is 26-year-old Blake Mohs who was a Home Depot loss prevention employee and Tri-Valley resident.
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). 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.
“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 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.
NEWS RELEASE 📃 Pleasanton Police Investigates Shooting
Pleasanton Police Department is actively investigating a shooting that occurred at approximately 2:15 p.m. on Tuesday, April 18 inside a Home Depot store located at 6000 Johnson Drive. Our dispatch center received calls about a man who was bleeding inside the store. Officers rendered aid to the victim, and he was immediately transported to a nearby hospital. Witnesses reported the victim attempted to stop a theft in progress, wherein a struggle ensued, and the man was shot. The suspects were seen immediately driving away from the scene after the shooting.
Allied agencies were notified of the description of the wanted vehicle. At approximately 2:30 p.m., deputies with the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office located the vehicle and successfully detained the suspects near the 7000 block of Ney Avenue in Oakland.
If you or anyone you know has information about this incident, please call Pleasanton Police Department at (925) 931-5100.
We are in the early stages of this investigation, and the media relations team will provide an update and be available for media request tomorrow morning after 9:00 a.m.