The Murder of Laura Gassaway
On May 22nd, 2001, Laura Gassaway was at Walmart when store employees notified their security that they suspected Laura of trying to steal sunglasses.
The store security followed and detained Laura. When Laura was brought to the security office they called for police assistance.
Once the police arrived Laura allegedly pulled a gun out.
The two Rockford police officers, Brad Shelton and Steve Allen, drew their weapons in response.
A shootout took place that led to Laura Gassaway being killed and three of the employees getting shot as well.
This was Shelton’s second shooting and the first time being killing a Rockford community member.
This was the first police shooting in Winnebago County in 2001.
This was the second police shooting in the 2000’s.