by Palmetto, GA — A tragic shooting outside a metro Atlanta Bojangles has left one man dead, and police say the suspect responsible is an employee of the restaurant.
Bojangles Employee Identified as Suspect in Deadly Parking Lot Shooting
Palmetto police have identified Maurice Nolan Evans of Forest Park as the suspect in Sunday’s fatal shooting. Officials say Evans has been arrested and charged with aggravated assault, murder, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony.
Authorities confirmed to Channel 2’s Eryn Rogers that officers arrived at 9135 Roosevelt Highway around 1:15 p.m., where they found a man dead in the parking lot. The victim’s family identified him as Dominique Goodman.
According to relatives, Goodman arrived at the restaurant after his daughter, who works there, called him about an argument with her shift manager. Family members say the suspect, who they claim is the shift manager, did not leave after his shift ended.
Police added that the employee clocked out around noon but “waited in the parking lot for Goodman to get there.”
What Led to the Confrontation
Investigators have not yet released details about the events that directly preceded the shooting, but family members believe the situation escalated unnecessarily. Goodman’s friends and relatives described the incident as senseless, emphasizing that it occurred during a time when families are preparing for the holidays.
A family friend, Marlene Lately, expressed heartbreak over the loss, saying, “These people need to put these guns down, and he should’ve gone home like the manager told him and none of this would’ve happen. She would have a father. They would have their cousin and their brother, and you know, it’s at the holiday.”
Evans is expected to be booked into the Fulton County Jail. Authorities stated, “Please contact Fulton County Jail for a booking photo.”
Bojangles Responds to the Tragedy
In a statement to Channel 2 Action News, Bojangles shared condolences and condemned the violence. The company said, “We are aware of the tragic incident that occurred earlier today at a franchised restaurant location in Palmetto, Georgia. Our hearts go out to the victim and all those impacted by this senseless act.”
The statement continued, noting that safety remains a priority for the brand:
“The safety of our guests and team members is always our top priority. The franchisee is fully cooperating with local law enforcement as they conduct their investigation.”
Bojangles also emphasized its stance against violence, adding,
“We strongly condemn all acts of violence. Out of respect for everyone involved and the integrity of the ongoing investigation, we will defer further details to the police.”
Community Reaction and Ongoing Investigation
Residents and family members say the shooting has shaken the community, calling it a devastating and preventable loss. Many are demanding accountability as the investigation moves forward.
Police have not released additional information about what may have sparked the confrontation or whether surveillance footage captured the incident.
Conclusion
A heartbreaking conflict at a Palmetto Bojangles has claimed the life of Dominique Goodman, leaving a family grieving and a community searching for answers. As police continue their investigation, friends and loved ones are pleading for peace and urging an end to gun-related violence.
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