By: Richard L. Smith
Authorities have identified the victim killed in Saturday night’s mass shooting at a Chick-fil-A, as investigators continue working to determine what led to the violence.
According to information released by the Union County Prosecutor’s Office and the Union Police Department, the victim has been identified as 23-year-old Malek Shepherd of New York City.
Police were dispatched to the Route 22 restaurant at approximately 9 p.m. on Saturday, April 11, after receiving reports of a shooting.
Upon arrival, officers located seven individuals who had been struck by gunfire.
Shepherd, who officials said was a customer inside the establishment at the time, was pronounced dead at the scene.
The six additional victims were transported to nearby hospitals, where they were treated for injuries that were not considered life-threatening.
Investigators have indicated that there is no active threat to the public at this time.
However, authorities continue to urge community members to remain alert as the investigation remains active.
The case is being led by the Union County Prosecutor’s Office Homicide Task Force, with Union police dedicating significant resources to assist in the ongoing investigation, officials said.