In-N-Out Chief Mourns Employee, Customers After Idaho Restaurant Shooting

In-N-Out Burger President Lynsi Snyder released an emotional statement following a shooting at one of the chain’s locations in Twin Falls, Idaho on Saturday afternoon that claimed the lives of three people, including an employee. Seven additional individuals sustained injuries, some described as critical, according to city spokesperson Josh Palmer. The suspected shooter was found dead near the restaurant, though authorities have not yet confirmed whether he is included in the casualty count.

Snyder described the loss in stark terms, saying she mourned the death of one of the company’s employees who was focused on serving customers when the violence occurred. “My heart is broken, my chest is heavy, my eyes burn from the tears I’ve shed,” the company leader wrote on Facebook, characterizing the shooter as a “disgusting human who doesn’t value the lives of others or his own.”

The incident unfolded around 2 p.m. at a busy shopping plaza where hundreds of people were present. Video footage from the scene appeared to capture an individual dressed in black wielding a long rifle, approaching a white vehicle and opening both the driver’s door and trunk. The gunman fired both within and outside the restaurant property before taking his own life shortly thereafter.

Twin Falls Police Chief Matthew Hicks stated during a press conference that investigators were working to identify the shooter and establish a motive for the attack. “We believe the threat to the community is over,” Hicks said, noting the scene had been “very chaotic.” Authorities have not yet released names, ages or identifying information regarding victims as next-of-kin notifications continue.

Multiple victims were transported to St. Luke’s Magic Valley Medical Center. The restaurant had opened just one week prior on July 24 as part of In-N-Out’s expansion into Idaho. The FBI and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are assisting local law enforcement with the investigation.

Snyder pledged that the company would support affected employees and customers while standing with victims’ families during the recovery process. She called on the In-N-Out community to “turn to God, not in anger, but seeking comfort and strength for those who are hurting” and emphasized the company’s commitment to learning from the tragedy.