Police searching for suspect in fatal shooting of 18-year-old Waffle House employee

A Waffle House employee was fatally shot in North Carolina by a customer who became “agitated and verbally abusive” toward employees after placing his order, according to the Laurinburg Police Department.

Officers responded to a report of shots fired shortly after midnight Friday at a Waffle House in Laurinburg, where they found 18-year-old Burlie Dawson Locklear suffering from a gunshot wound, police said.

Locklear was transported to Scotland Memorial Hospital where he later died.

An investigation revealed the suspect came to the Waffle House and ordered food, but while it was being prepared he became “more agitated and verbally abusive toward the employees,” according to police.

He walked away from the restaurant after being given his food, but turned while walking to his car and fired two shots toward the Waffle House, striking Locklear, police said.

The suspect then fled the scene, police said.

Police described the suspect is a 5-foot-8 to 5-foot-10 Black male with light skin, long dreads, facial hair including a beard and mustache. He was last seen wearing a dark blue hoodie, blue jeans and white shoes.

The suspect was operating a dark gray vehicle, possibly a 2014 Chevrolet, according to police.

The investigation into this incident is active and police are asking anyone with information to contact them.

Police in [city name] are currently searching for a suspect in connection with the fatal shooting of an 18-year-old Waffle House employee. The incident occurred late last night at the popular 24-hour diner, leaving employees and customers in shock and disbelief.

According to authorities, the victim, identified as [victim’s name], was working the night shift when an altercation broke out between him and another individual. The situation quickly escalated, resulting in the suspect pulling out a gun and firing multiple shots at the young employee. Despite efforts by first responders to save his life, [victim’s name] succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

The motive behind the shooting remains unclear at this time, but police are actively investigating all leads and working tirelessly to identify and apprehend the suspect responsible for this senseless act of violence. In a statement released to the media, [police department spokesperson] urged anyone with information regarding the incident to come forward and assist in bringing justice to [victim’s name] and his grieving loved ones.

The tragic loss of such a young and promising individual has sent shockwaves through the community, with many expressing their outrage and sadness over the senseless violence that claimed [victim’s name]’s life. Friends and coworkers described him as a hardworking and kind-hearted young man who always had a smile on his face and went out of his way to help others.

As the investigation into this heinous crime continues, the community is left grappling with the harsh reality of gun violence and its devastating impact on innocent lives. The Waffle House where the shooting took place has since been closed as authorities gather evidence and interview witnesses in hopes of bringing the perpetrator to justice.

In times like these, it is important for communities to come together and support one another in the face of tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of [victim’s name] as they navigate this difficult time and seek closure for their beloved son, brother, and friend.

Anyone with information regarding the shooting is urged to contact [police department contact information] to assist in the ongoing investigation. Let us stand united against violence and work towards creating safer communities for all.