Deadly Shooting Erupts at New Jersey Chick-fil-A

Masked gunmen opened fire inside the restaurant, killing one and injuring six others

Apr. 13, 2026 at 5:18pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a spent shell casing on the floor, its metallic surface reflecting the harsh light of the camera flash, conveying the sudden and violent nature of the crime.The aftermath of a targeted shooting inside a New Jersey fast-food restaurant exposes the grim reality of gun violence.Union Today

A deadly shooting occurred at a Chick-fil-A restaurant in Union, New Jersey on Saturday night, leaving one person dead and six others injured. Multiple masked gunmen reportedly stormed the restaurant and opened fire from behind the food counter. The suspect remains at large, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.

Why it matters

This incident has shaken the local community and raised concerns about public safety, with authorities stating the shooting does not appear to be a random act of violence. The investigation is ongoing to determine the motive and apprehend the suspect.

The details

According to reports, the shooting took place around 8:45 pm on April 11, 2026 at the Chick-fil-A on Route 22 in Union Township. Multiple masked gunmen entered the restaurant and opened fire from behind the food counter, killing one person and injuring six others. The victims were transported to area hospitals with non-life-threatening injuries. Dashcam footage shows a masked individual fleeing the scene, and employees described the scene as a 'warzone'.

  • The shooting occurred around 8:45 pm on Saturday, April 11, 2026.
  • Police responded to reports of gunfire at the restaurant on Route 22 near Gelb Avenue.

The players

Union County Prosecutor's Office

The office leading the investigation into the shooting and stating there is no immediate ongoing threat to the public.

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill

Issued a statement expressing her thoughts with those injured and saying state officials are in close contact with local law enforcement.

New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport

Noted that Union County prosecutors are overseeing the investigation.

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What they’re saying

“My thoughts are with those who were injured in the shooting, and with their families.”

— Mikie Sherrill, New Jersey Governor

What’s next

Authorities are urging anyone with information about the shooting to contact the Union County Prosecutor's Office. Union County Crime Stoppers is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to an indictment and conviction.

The takeaway

This tragic shooting has left the local community shaken and authorities working to determine the motive and apprehend the suspect. It highlights the ongoing challenges of maintaining public safety and the need for vigilance, even in everyday settings.