Twin Falls man struck in In-N-Out shooting when he ran toward the gunfire to help

TWIN FALLS — A Twin Falls man who ran toward the sounds of gunfire at the incident at In-N-Out was struck by a bullet. His family is seeking help while he recovers.

On Saturday, a gunman opened fire at the In-N-Out Burger in Twin Falls. Three people were killed, and seven more were injured. The shooter was pursued by law enforcement and took his own life.

Austin “AJ” James was at the Twin Falls In-N-Out Burger with his wife and a friend when he heard gunshots, according to a GiveSendGo page posted by his family.

Reportedly, without hesitation, James told his wife and friend to stay in the vehicle while he ran toward the sounds of gunfire to try and help. The GiveSendGo page says James intentionally did not draw his firearm as he approached so he would not be mistaken for the shooter by law enforcement.

After rounding a corner, James came face-to-face with the gunman and was shot. His humerus was reportedly shattered, and a major artery was struck.

“Despite being critically wounded, Austin’s actions drew the suspect’s attention away from others who were in the area,” the GiveSendGo says. The gunmen fled the scene while James was losing blood.

James’ wife and their friend, both emergency room nurses, were able to find James, get him into their vehicle, and control his bleeding while they transferred him themselves to the hospital, where James was taken in for emergency surgery.

“Austin now faces a long road to recovery that will include additional medical care, rehabilitation, and months away from work,” GiveSendGo says.

James’ family is asking for prayers, and if possible, financial support to help cover James’ medical bills and the loss of income they are now facing. James is facing more surgeries and his wife is taking time off work to help care for James, the GiveSendGo says.

EastIdahoNews.com reached out for comment, but James’ family has declined at this time.

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