An electric taxi driver and a former law enforcement officer were among seven individuals injured in a mass shooting that resulted in three fatalities at a fast food restaurant in Idaho. The incident occurred at an In-N-Out Burger in Twin Falls. The gunman, Chad Williams, 24, ended the attack by taking his own life.
The motivations behind Williams’ actions on that Saturday afternoon are still unclear. He opened fire in a bustling shopping center in Twin Falls, southern Idaho. Despite an ongoing investigation, police have not found any criminal records for Williams in Idaho or Arizona where he previously resided.
Shooter Described as Introverted
Elijah Moseley, who once shared a dorm with Williams at the College of Southern Idaho, described him as introverted and calm. Moseley, who once considered Williams a close friend, expressed shock and distress at the events.
The police assert that Williams acted independently, and his family is cooperating with their investigation. Of those wounded, two were discharged after hospital treatment, three remain stable, while two are critically injured.
Acts of Bravery During the Shooting
During the chaos, an off-duty state trooper and a civilian engaged Williams, preventing further harm. Officials have yet to release their names or those of the victims, though efforts to identify them continue. A vigil for the victims is scheduled at Twin Falls City Park.
Victims and Community Impact
The In-N-Out restaurant, recently opened as part of the chain’s Idaho expansion, lost an employee in the shooting. While unnamed by Lynsi Snyder, the chain’s owner, Kimberley Castaneda confirmed her brother, Christopher Claunch, was among the deceased. Claunch, known as “Toph,” was recognized for his commitment to aiding others overcome alcohol abuse through his work at Renaissance Ranch Recovery Center.
One of the critically injured, Austin “A.J.” Scott, reportedly moved towards the gunfire to protect others. His father shared that Scott faces a lengthy recovery. Previously affiliated with both the Twin Falls Police and Idaho State Police, Scott’s exact actions during the attack remain a personal account.
Taxi driver Terry Dudley, shot while charging an electric vehicle near the restaurant, also suffered serious injuries. James Palmer, the taxi service owner, proclaimed the ordeal chaotic, acknowledging Dudley as a significant personal and professional ally.
Gunman’s Background and College Experience
Williams attended the College of Southern Idaho between August 2022 and December 2023 without completing a degree. Serving briefly in the student senate, he was impeached in February 2023 due to inactivity, according to Moseley, the then-senate pro-tempore.
The search for more details about Williams continues as law enforcement scrutinizes his past and motivations.