Shooting at New Jersey Chick-fil-A Leaves 1 Dead, 6 Injured

Authorities say the attack was not random, but no arrests have been made.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 8:25pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a spent shell casing from a handgun, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.The aftermath of a shooting at a New Jersey Chick-fil-A exposes the grim reality of gun violence in public spaces.Union Today

Police in Union, New Jersey reported that one person was killed and six others were injured in a shooting at a local Chick-fil-A restaurant on Saturday night. Investigators do not believe the attack was random, but no arrests have been made and there is no immediate ongoing threat to the public, according to the Union County Prosecutor's Office.

Why it matters

Gun violence in public spaces continues to be a major concern for communities across the country, with restaurants and other gathering places sometimes becoming targets. This incident raises questions about safety protocols, security measures, and the ongoing challenges of preventing such tragedies.

The details

The shooting occurred around 9 p.m. on Saturday at the Chick-fil-A location in Union. While the injuries are not believed to be life-threatening, the Homicide Task Force at the county prosecutor's office is investigating the incident. A ride share driver in the area reported hearing more than seven shots fired from close range as he approached the restaurant.

  • The shooting took place around 9 p.m. on Saturday, April 11, 2026.
  • The Union County Prosecutor's Office issued a press release about the incident on Sunday, April 12, 2026.

The players

Union County Prosecutor's Office

The local law enforcement agency investigating the shooting incident at the Chick-fil-A in Union, New Jersey.

Mikie Sherrill

The Governor of New Jersey, who expressed condolences and urged people with information to contact authorities.

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What they’re saying

“Our hearts go out to the victim's loved ones, and we are hoping for the full recovery of those who were injured.”

— Mikie Sherrill, Governor of New Jersey

What’s next

The Homicide Task Force at the Union County Prosecutor's Office continues to investigate the shooting, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.

The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the ongoing challenges communities face in preventing gun violence, even in everyday public spaces like restaurants. As authorities work to determine a motive and identify the perpetrator, this case will likely reignite debates around public safety, security measures, and potential policy reforms.