Security cameras show the moment a man was shot dead at Guarulhos airport in Greater Sao Paulo. The attack occurred at the exit of Terminal 2 on Friday afternoon (8).
The target of the attack was the businessman and real estate agent Antônio Vinícius Lopes Gritzbach, who according to the Public Prosecutor was killed in revenge by the criminal faction PCC (Primeiro Comando da Capital). He died at the scene.
At least three other people were shot at the site, which is the country’s largest airport.
Gritzbach was returning from Goiânia. As images of the attack show, he had just left the arrivals area of Terminal 2 of the airport when hooded men got out of a black Volkswagen Gol and shot the businessman. The shots were fired near the gate, amid the movement of other passengers. The attackers got into the car and fled.
Cellphone videos show a person lying in the vehicle’s landing area, people running inside the airport and another victim lying, also inside, being rescued. A third victim would be found near the doors, also outside.
The vehicle was found by military police officers of the 3rd Assault Battalion abandoned in Rua Guilherme Lino dos Santos, about 6 km from the airport. According to Military Police, a ballistic vest and rifle ammunition were found inside the car.
Teams from DHPP (Department of Homicide and Personal Protection) and Rota (Prime Minister’s elite troops) were dispatched to the airport. Until publication there was no information about what happened to the girl.
Three military police officers were escorting the man shot at the time of the attack. The company specifies that they presented themselves to the Civil Police on Friday evening and, after giving a statement, would have been sent to the Department of Internal Affairs.
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Security Expert
Editor: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we’re discussing the recent shooting incident at Guarulhos Airport in Greater São Paulo, where businessman Antônio Vinícius Lopes Gritzbach was tragically killed. Joining us is Dr. Maria Silva, a security expert with extensive experience in crisis response and urban safety. Dr. Silva, thank you for being here.
Dr. Silva: Thank you for having me. It’s unfortunate that we have to discuss such a grim topic, but it’s crucial to understand the implications.
Editor: Absolutely. The incident took place at Terminal 2 during a busy Friday afternoon. Can you help us understand the risks associated with public spaces like airports?
Dr. Silva: Certainly. Airports are high-traffic areas that become prime targets for violent acts due to the mix of populations and the high visibility. Security forces try to mitigate risks, but there are always vulnerabilities, especially during peak travel times when security personnel may be stretched thin.
Editor: It’s alarming to think about how vulnerable these public spaces can be. What steps can airport authorities take to increase safety and prevent incidents like this?
Dr. Silva: First and foremost, enhancing surveillance is key. Security cameras, like those that recorded the shooting, can be effective deterrents. However, they must be monitored in real time by trained personnel. Additionally, implementing better access controls and increasing the presence of security personnel can also help. Regular drills and community education about recognizing suspicious behavior can empower the public to assist in safety.
Editor: We understand that Gritzbach was a businessman and a real estate agent. Do you think conflicts in personal or professional life can escalate to violence in such public spaces?
Dr. Silva: Unfortunately, yes. Personal disputes, especially in highly competitive fields like business and real estate, can sometimes lead to violent outcomes. It’s vital for professionals to recognize the conflict risks and seek mediation or legal resolutions rather than letting disagreements escalate.
Editor: That makes a lot of sense. In such a tense situation, how should witnesses react? What protocols should they follow?
Dr. Silva: Witnesses should prioritize their safety first. They should move away from the immediate vicinity and contact authorities as soon as possible. Providing clear, factual information—like the shooter’s description or vehicle type—can be incredibly valuable for law enforcement. It’s also important for witnesses to remain calm to avoid causing panic.
Editor: What are the implications of this shooting for the broader community and for public trust in safety at airports?
Dr. Silva: The immediate aftermath of such incidents can lead to public fear and declining trust in safety measures. It’s crucial for authorities to communicate transparently about what happened, the steps being taken to prevent future occurrences, and to engage community members in discussions about safety improvements. Rebuilding that trust requires consistent effort and vigilance.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Silva, for sharing your insights. It’s essential that we continue to discuss and address these issues to ensure the safety of all who travel.
Dr. Silva: Thank you for having me. Let’s hope for safer public spaces in the future.
Editor: And to our readers, stay informed and always be aware of your surroundings. Thank you for tuning in to Time.news!
