One person has been killed and six others injured after masked gunmen opened fire inside a Chick-fil-A in Union Township, New Jersey, late Saturday night.
Witnesses described the scene as a “war zone” as gunfire erupted inside the Route 22 restaurant just before 9 p.m.
Authorities said the incident is now being investigated as part of the 100th mass shooting in the United States this year, according to Gun Violence Archive data.
Police Say Attack Appears Targeted as Suspects Remain at Large
The Union County Prosecutor’s Office said the shooting does not appear to be random, though officials have not released a motive.
No arrests have been made, and law enforcement officials say they are actively searching for the suspects involved.
Chaos Erupts as Witnesses Describe Gunmen and Panic
According to witness accounts, masked individuals entered the restaurant, forced their way behind the counter, and opened fire before fleeing the scene.
“It was a war zone,” one witness said through a family member speaking to CBS.
Video from the scene appears to show a suspect running through the parking lot, while dashcam footage captured customers fleeing in panic as shots were fired.
A Lyft driver named Martin said he heard multiple gunshots while nearby.
“I heard at least seven shots. It was very close. People were running everywhere,” he told ABC7.
Investigators were later seen processing the scene as forensic teams collected evidence from inside the restaurant.
Shooting Investigation Continues as Legal Help and Public Tips Are Sought
Six additional victims were injured in the attack. The shooting marks the 100th mass shooting in the United States this year, defined as an incident in which four or more people are killed or injured according to Gun Violence Archive data.
State Attorney General Jennifer Davenport said she was “horrified” by the violence and confirmed that a full investigation is underway.
“Our thoughts are with the victims and their families,” she wrote on X. “Gun violence has no place in our state.”
Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward, noting that tips leading to an arrest and conviction may be eligible for a reward of up to $10,000.
Legal Guidance for Those Affected or Facing Related Issues
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