MASS SHOOTING AT UNION CHICK-FIL-A: ONE DEAD, SIX INJURED

“Terror on Route 22: Masked Gunman Flee After Targeted Attack Inside Crowded Restaurant”

UNION TOWNSHIP, NJ — A “shining light” of the local community was shattered on Saturday, April 11, 2026, when a group of masked individuals stormed a Chick-fil-A and opened fire. The Union County Prosecutor’s Office confirmed on Sunday that one person was killed and six others were wounded in what officials are calling a targeted attack.

The Incident: Saturday, April 11, 2026

The violence erupted at approximately 8:45 PM at the Chick-fil-A located on Route 22 near Gelb Avenue.

• The Attack: Witnesses and employees reported that a group of men, all wearing masks, entered the establishment and moved directly behind the service counter.

• The Gunfire: Without warning, the suspects opened fire, discharging multiple rounds in the crowded kitchen and service area. At least 27 spent shell casings were later recovered from the scene.

• The Escape: Dramatic dashcam footage captured one masked suspect brandishing a handgun while running through the parking lot toward a getaway vehicle as terrified workers fled onto Route 22.

The Victims and Casualties

The shooting resulted in seven total victims, many of whom were reportedly employees of the restaurant.

• Fatal Casualty: One individual was pronounced deceased shortly after police arrived. Their identity is being withheld pending family notification.

• The Injured: Six other victims were treated at nearby hospitals. While 911 dispatch audio indicated injuries including shots to the face and legs, officials stated Sunday that the survivors’ injuries are currently considered non-life-threatening.

• Trauma at the Scene: Frightened staff members were confined within the restaurant for hours while law enforcement conducted their sweep, with one father describing his son’s workplace as a “war zone.”

Status of the Investigation

The Union County Homicide Task Force and the Union Township Police Department are leading the active investigation.

• Targeted Nature: Investigators explicitly stated that the shooting was not a random act and was likely a targeted confrontation.

• Ongoing Threat: While no arrests have been made, officials assured the public that there is “no immediate ongoing threat to the general public.”

• Motive: Authorities have not yet disclosed a possible motive or the identity of the suspects.

“I have been briefed on the shooting last night in Union Township… My thoughts are with those who were injured in the shooting and with their families.” — Gov. Mikie Sherrill

A Community Shaken

The “senseless and heinous” nature of a shooting at a popular family fast-food chain has left residents in shock. Neighbors and frequent diners described the location as a “go-to” spot, expressing disbelief that such violence could occur in a space usually filled with families and teenagers.

How You Can Help

The Union County Prosecutor’s Office is urging anyone with information, cell phone video, or dashcam footage from the Route 22 area between 8:30 PM and 9:15 PM on Saturday to come forward.

• Contact: Union County Prosecutor’s Office

• Phone: (908) 527-4500

• Anonymous Tips: Information can be submitted through local Crime Stoppers channels.

In Memory and Recovery: We stand with the employees of Union Chick-fil-A and the families of those affected. May the community find the strength to recover from this “senseless” tragedy.

If you or someone you know was a witness to this event and is in need of trauma support, please contact the New Jersey Disaster Response Crisis Counselor (DRCC) or call 988.