David Alan Caouette, 64, was shot and killed on October 12, 2011, in Seal Beach, California, during the mass shooting at Salon Meritage. Caouette was sitting in his parked Land Rover outside the salon when the gunman walked through the parking lot and shot him; he was not inside the business and appeared to have been a random victim of the rampage.

The shooter, identified as Scott Dekraai, also killed several people inside the salon; one of the victims inside was Dekraai’s ex-wife, and the attack has been linked to a bitter custody dispute. Dekraai was apprehended at the scene and charged with multiple counts of murder and attempted murder. Reports note extensive legal proceedings that included debate over the death penalty and questions about the perpetrator’s mental health.

Families and the Seal Beach community held memorials and tributes for the victims, including Caouette, and the case prompted public discussion about gun violence and related issues. If anyone knew David Caouette or has information about that day, please share what you remember.