Police believe the shooting was a targeted attack, but have stated there is no threat to the community at this time. A large emergency response descended on the Chick-fil-A after the gunfire, with the Union County Prosecutor's Office conducting an active and ongoing investigation. According to spokesperson Lauren Farinas, more information will be released as it becomes available. The investigation is being handled by local authorities with support from state officials, who are working to piece together the sequence of events and gather evidence from the scene.
The Chick-fil-A is located at 2139 US 22 in Union, New Jersey. A parking lot off of Route 22 was completely closed off amidst the violence, and the location was sent into lockdown as authorities secured the scene. The lockdown was implemented to ensure public safety and allow for a thorough investigation of the crime scene, with law enforcement cordoning off the area to prevent further incidents and preserve evidence.
I got an unconscious witness. I've got one shot in the face... and I have at least two in the leg.
The victims and suspects have not yet been identified, and the motive of the attack remains unclear. According to Daily Mail - News, a 911 dispatcher described receiving reports of an unconscious witness, one person shot in the face, and at least two shot in the leg. Former New Jersey Assemblyman Jamel Holley said on social media, as paraphrased, that numerous people were injured and one was confirmed dead in the mass shooting at the Chick-fil-A, urging prayers for those affected. The lack of identification has complicated the investigation, but authorities are working to gather more details, including witness statements and surveillance footage, to advance the case.
New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill has been briefed on the shooting and remains in close contact with officials on the ground. In an official statement, Sherrill said, as paraphrased, that she has been briefed on the shooting and remains in close contact with officials, with her thoughts being with those affected by the violence. The governor's involvement underscores the seriousness of the incident and the coordinated response efforts, as state resources are mobilized to support the local investigation and community recovery.