Off-Duty Idaho Trooper Steve McClain Helped Keep Gunman Engaged During Deadly Shooting

 When gunfire erupted at a Twin Falls In-N-Out on Aug. 1, ordinary people suddenly faced a terrifying choice: run, hide, or act. Among those who stepped forward was Idaho State Police Trooper Steve McClain, who was off duty when the shooting began and later exchanged fire with the gunman. His actions, authorities say, helped keep the attacker engaged during a violent rampage that killed three people and wounded others.

The Idaho State Police identified McClain publicly on Tuesday, Aug. 11, adding his name to a growing list of people whose actions during the attack may have helped prevent even greater loss. McClain, a 12-year veteran of the agency, was inside the restaurant when the shooting unfolded and responded as the situation developed. Police have credited several individuals with confronting, distracting, or otherwise engaging the shooter, creating opportunities for others to escape. His identification added important context.

According to authorities, McClain did more than simply protect himself. He helped evacuate employees and customers while searching for the gunman, and he exchanged gunfire with the attacker. Later, when an on-duty officer arrived, video captured McClain directing that officer toward the shooter’s location. His response placed him in an extraordinarily dangerous position while the threat was still active, but it also helped responders understand where the gunman had gone. His presence gave others more time.

The shooting began at the newly opened restaurant in Twin Falls and spread beyond the immediate business as the attacker continued firing. Three people were killed, and 10 others were wounded during the Aug. 1 rampage, according to reports from authorities and the Associated Press. The victims included In-N-Out employee Ashley Garibay, 23, Christopher Claunch, 59, and Dale Schultz, 66. The suspected gunman, 24-year-old Chad Williams, later died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The attack left survivors deeply shaken.

McClain has offered little personal attention to his role, instead describing his actions as something he believed needed to be done. In a statement released after his identification, he expressed gratitude for the training he had received throughout his career and said that preparation helped him respond during what he called a horrific incident. He also extended his well wishes to the victims’ families and to those still recovering from their injuries. His words also honored those affected.

His modest response stands in contrast to the extraordinary circumstances surrounding the decision he made that day. While others were trying to reach safety, McClain moved toward danger and used his training to confront an active threat. Other civilians and off-duty or former officers also intervened during the attack, and authorities have emphasized that multiple people took courageous actions that may have limited further casualties. Their combined efforts reflected remarkable courage.

The identification of McClain comes as the Twin Falls community continues processing the violence that unfolded only days after the restaurant opened. Surveillance footage released by police has provided additional information about the attack, while investigators continue working to establish the full sequence of events and the motive. For survivors and families of those killed, the consequences extend far beyond the moments captured on video, with injuries, grief, and trauma continuing long after the gunfire ended.

Steve McClain did not describe himself as a hero; he said he simply did what he believed was necessary. Yet his actions have become part of a larger story of courage. Remembering his response does not lessen the tragedy suffered by the victims and their families, but it highlights the people who chose to act when others needed help. Their willingness to confront danger may have saved lives.