A Saturday afternoon turned tragic in Twin Falls, Idaho, when gunfire broke out at a newly opened In-N-Out Burger located inside a busy shopping area.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene after multiple reports of shots being fired, while officers secured the surrounding businesses and directed people away from the area.
Officials later confirmed that three people lost their lives and seven others suffered injuries. Several victims were transported to nearby hospitals, where some remained in critical condition.
Authorities have not yet released the identities of the victims because family notifications are still underway. Police said the suspected shooter was found dead close to the restaurant shortly after the attack.
Investigators are still determining whether the suspect is included in the official death toll. The motive has not been established, and officials have not publicly identified the gunman.
The restaurant had opened only about a week before the shooting and had quickly become a popular destination, drawing heavy weekend crowds.
Because of the large number of customers and nearby shoppers, investigators expect to interview hundreds of witnesses and review surveillance footage from surrounding businesses as they reconstruct the timeline.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene as people ran for cover after hearing gunfire. Some reported seeing an individual carrying a long rifle near the drive-thru, while others helped injured victims before paramedics arrived.
Authorities have not verified every account circulating on social media and continue to rely on physical evidence and witness interviews as part of the investigation.
The shooting has deeply affected the Twin Falls community and raised new concerns about public safety in crowded commercial areas.
Officials have urged residents to avoid spreading unverified information while detectives continue collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses.
Idaho Governor Brad Little expressed condolences to the victims and their families following the shooting.
In-N-Out also said it was heartbroken by the tragedy and pledged support for employees and everyone affected. Company officials later confirmed that one employee was among those who died in the attack.
Investigators will continue examining forensic evidence, reviewing surveillance video, and interviewing witnesses before releasing additional findings.
Authorities have said more information, including victim identities and investigative updates, will be shared once confirmed.
SOURCES:
The Guardian
Reuters
Associated Press
