Three people, including an In-N-Out Burger employee, are dead following a shooting at a fast-food restaurant in Idaho.

In Twin Falls, Idaho, a tragic shooting unfolded at an In-N-Out Burger restaurant on Saturday, resulting in the deaths of three individuals and leaving seven others wounded, some critically. The incident has prompted an outpouring of grief from community members and the fast-food chain’s owner, Lynsi Snyder, who expressed her sorrow over the loss of an employee in a heartfelt statement released on social media.

The assault occurred shortly after 2 p.m. at the newly opened In-N-Out Burger, which had commenced operations just a week prior to the shooting as part of the company’s expansion into Idaho. The FBI has called on the public to share any images or videos pertaining to the incident, which took place in a busy shopping plaza teeming with patrons.

Identities of the deceased, including the employee and the suspected gunman, remain undisclosed as authorities prioritize notifying the victims’ families. Twin Falls spokesperson Josh Palmer confirmed that the body of the suspected shooter was discovered near the restaurant but did not clarify if the perpetrator was among the fatalities. Investigators are actively working to determine the shooter’s identity and potential motives, as stated by Twin Falls Police Chief Matthew Hicks during a press conference.

Witness accounts describe a chaotic scene, marked by confusion and fear. Nearby resident Lane Koehn recounted witnessing a person armed with an assault-style rifle emerge from the drive-thru. He observed another individual firing a handgun in an attempt to neutralize the shooter. Koehn, along with employees, assisted an injured colleague, dragging her across the parking lot while awaiting paramedics.

Local resident Haley Dodaro, who visited the In-N-Out for lunch, noted a sudden rush of panic as people ran away from the restaurant, initially believing there might be a fire. The realization of an active shooter led to a state of alarm as individuals fled the scene in distress. Similarly, Nayeli Rodriguez, present with her daughters, described the moment when an employee instructed patrons to take cover, reinforcing the urgency of their escape.

Multiple victims were transported to St. Luke’s Magic Valley Medical Center, as hospital personnel coordinated with law enforcement to address the unfolding situation. Twin Falls, which has a population of approximately 56,000, is nestled about 130 miles southeast of Boise and 75 miles north of the Nevada border. As investigations continue, the community grapples with the impact of this devastating event, highlighting ongoing national concerns over gun violence and public safety.

Authorities remain committed to providing support and updates as they navigate through this tragic incident.