Two workers were killed and a third was injured after a colleague opened fire September 30 at United Rentals’ branch in Manassas, Virginia, before killing himself during a standoff with police, according to local and state officials.
Marvin Grant, 37, of Charlotte, North Carolina, was identified as the alleged gunman. The Manassas City Police Department identified the two employees who died as Ricky Lamot, 48, and Christopher Serrano, 33. The third victim is hospitalized in stable condition and is expected to survive, but will require surgery, according to police.
Shortly after 7 a.m. September 30, police began receiving 911 calls for an active shooter at the United Rentals complex. Nearby deputies responded and secured the area. They then found three men, all employees of United Rentals, who had been shot and began administering first aid.
While no motive has been identified, Manassas Police Chief Doug Keen said during a press conference that it was the result of an altercation.
“What we do know at this point is Mr. Grant came to work this morning, made a statement to a coworker that 'three people are going to die.' He then produced a handgun and began shooting,” said Keen. “What we don’t know is a motive. That brings no relief to our victims' families.”
Powered byFollowing the shooting, Grant fled the complex. Detectives used cellphone technology and witness information to determine he was headed south on I-81. Local officers were alerted and spotted Grant’s silver Toyota Camry near the 235-mile marker in Augusta County.
Officials said Grant pulled over at a rest area near the 232-mile marker, where Virginia State Police attempted a traffic stop. Grant briefly exited the vehicle, then got back in and continued southbound on I-81. A police chase ensued.
Grant pulled over again roughly five miles later and exited the vehicle with a gun pointed at his head. He fatally shot himself during a standoff with Virginia State Police’s tactical team and negotiators. Troopers reported that they did not use force during the response.
The incident remains under investigation with detectives continuing to review video surveillance footage to determine a timeline of events and a motive. “While some may consider the case closed with the death of Mr. Grant, that brings no closure to this case,” said Keen. “Our community is still hurting, the family of United Rentals is still hurting, and the families of the victims are still hurting.”
7News received the following statement from United Rentals regarding the shooting: "United Rentals is aware of an incident that occurred today at our Manassas, Virginia, branch. The safety and well-being of our employees and the community are our top priority. We are working closely with law enforcement and providing support to affected team members."
A GoFundMe page started by Serrano’s partner described him as “a devoted father and life partner who loved his family deeply.”
Serrano leaves behind a 10-year-old son and 2-year-old daughter. “Above everything else, he loved being their dad. Knowing that our children now have to navigate life without their father is a reality I am still struggling to comprehend,” said Mayra Maturano.
Keen knew Lamot personally, calling him “a devoted family man who coached youth football.”
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