Eric Whitcomb, 50, was working the early shift at the Circle K on Lakeshore Drive in Lake Elsinore on June 14, 2017, when he was shot and killed during an attempted robbery. The incident occurred about 5:20 a.m. James Curtis Coon, who had formerly worked at the store and knew its layout, spent roughly 20 minutes inside pretending to shop before approaching the counter. Whitcomb apparently tried to take photos or video of Coon and his vehicle, and Coon then produced a .357 Magnum revolver and fired. Whitcomb was struck by two rounds, fell, and was shot again as he moved; he later died of his injuries.

Investigators quickly identified and arrested Coon at his home less than a mile from the store. He was charged with first-degree murder, attempted murder, armed robbery and burglary; evidence at trial included testimony that Coon planned the robbery because of financial problems and intended to kill a lone clerk to avoid interference. Whitcomb had worked at the Circle K for 12 years and was remembered by family and the community as a dedicated employee with a heart of gold.