Three Killed, Seven Injured in Idaho In-N-Out Shooting
A gunman opened fire at an In-N-Out restaurant in Twin Falls, Idaho, on Saturday, killing three people and wounding seven others before dying by suicide, according to local officials. The shooter has been identified by authorities as 24-year-old Chad Williams.
Twin Falls Police Chief Matthew Hicks confirmed on Sunday that Williams died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Investigators are currently working to establish a motive for the attack. Hicks noted that the suspect's relatives are cooperating with law enforcement, adding that their hearts are also broken. Police officials stated they are confident the suspect acted alone during the incident.
The shooting took place shortly before 2:30 p.m. local time. Video footage shared on social media captured bystanders fleeing a retail parking area as gunshots sounded in the background. The footage also showed an individual carrying an object resembling a firearm outside the restaurant and opening the doors of a stationary saloon car.
Confrontation and Emergency Response
First responders arrived at what Police Chief Hicks described as one of the most chaotic situations a law enforcement officer can face in their career. During the incident, an off-duty law enforcement officer and a bystander confronted Williams and exchanged gunfire with him.
Hicks stated that authorities believe the actions of the off-duty officer and the bystander successfully drove the suspect away from the scene, preventing further casualties.
The shooting left seven people injured, with victims transported to St. Luke's Magic Valley Medical Center. Hicks confirmed that two of the injured individuals have been treated and discharged. Two victims remain in critical condition, while three others are listed in stable condition. Hicks cautioned that these casualty figures are preliminary and subject to revision.
Investigation and Community Impact
The Federal Bureau of Investigation is assisting local authorities with the primary inquiry. On Sunday, an FBI spokesperson confirmed their involvement, and the agency has encouraged members of the public to submit any images or videos related to Saturday's shooting to aid the investigation.
In-N-Out president and owner Lynsi Snyder released a statement early Sunday confirming that a female employee was among those killed. Snyder did not release the victim's identity but expressed deep grief, stating that the associate was taking care of customers when the violence broke out. Snyder added that the company will mourn and pray with the affected families.
The Twin Falls In-N-Out location had opened recently, on July 24, as part of the California-based chain's expansion into Idaho. Twin Falls is located in southern Idaho, approximately 120 miles southeast of the state capital, Boise.
