Police release video showing gunman shooting victims at Idaho In-N-Out Burger drive-thru
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Police released video footage of a mass shooting at an Idaho In-N-Out Burger drive-thru that killed three people.
- An employee from a nearby store is hailed as a hero for distracting the gunman, potentially saving others.
- The gunman, identified as Chad Williams, 24, died by suicide as police closed in; authorities are still seeking a motive.
Twin Falls Police have released video footage capturing the moments of a deadly mass shooting at an Idaho In-N-Out Burger drive-thru, an incident that claimed the lives of three people. The video offers a clearer view of the chaos that unfolded last weekend, showing the gunman approaching the drive-thru window multiple times and opening fire.
What happened here was violent, frightening and deeply traumatic.
Authorities are particularly commending the actions of an employee from a neighboring store who is being called a hero. This individual confronted the gunman outdoors, engaging him in a conversation that served to distract him. Police Chief Matthew Hicks stated that this act of courage likely provided crucial time for other potential victims to escape harm. "Your courage, your composure, your selflessness in that moment likely gave others the time they needed to escape harm," Hicks said, addressing the heroic employee.
The shooting resulted in ten people being injured. The victims were shot both inside and immediately outside the restaurant, as well as on a nearby road and at a vehicle charging station. The gunman, identified as 24-year-old Chad Williams, died by suicide near a canyon as law enforcement officers converged on his location. Investigators have yet to establish a motive for the attack.
To that young man, you are a hero. Your courage, your composure, your selflessness in that moment likely gave others the time they needed to escape harm. This community is grateful for you, and we will never forget what you did that day.
In addition to the heroic employee, other individuals are being recognized for their bravery. An off-duty state trooper reportedly exchanged gunfire with the suspect from inside the restaurant, while a former police officer, A.J. James, was wounded while confronting the gunman. An armed civilian had previously been credited with firing back at the suspect, diverting him from the restaurant. Despite the violence and tragedy, the community is expressing gratitude for those who acted selflessly in the face of extreme danger.
I said, 'I have a family.' I said, 'You don't have to do this. I'll tell you whatever you want. I'll do anything,'
Originally published by PBS NewsHour. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.