A 16-year-old male was shot and suffered life-threatening injuries at an IHOP restaurant in DeKalb County, Georgia, on Saturday morning. The victim, whose identity remains undisclosed, later succumbed to his wounds and was pronounced dead. The shooting occurred at the IHOP located on Panola Road in Lithonia, prompting a swift response from the DeKalb County police. Authorities have revealed that the victim and the suspect were acquainted and had an ongoing dispute. As the investigation continues, the IHOP staff, deeply affected by the incident, is receiving support and counseling.
DeKalb County police were asked to respond to the scene at the IHOP on Panola Road in Lithonia after receiving reports of a shooting. Upon arrival, officers discovered a 16-year-old male with a gunshot wound to the head. Tragically, the victim did not survive. The incident took place shortly before noon, and initial information suggests that the victim and the suspect were familiar with each other and had been involved in an ongoing dispute.
Christina Xivir, the general manager of the IHOP, expressed her devastation over the incident and emphasized the importance of supporting the affected team members. Xivir stated that the establishment is cooperating with local authorities to piece together the events that transpired. The well-being of the staff is currently the top priority, and counseling services will be made available to them during this difficult time.
Witnesses from neighboring restaurants and shops reported hearing cries for help, leaving the community shaken. Trevarius Worthy, a local resident, expressed his prayers for those affected and urged the shooter to turn themselves in, emphasizing that the situation would only worsen with time.
As of Saturday evening, the police had not released the names of the victim or the suspected shooter. The police have not yet confirmed whether a suspect has been apprehended. Following the shooting incident, he IHOP on Panola Road will remain closed on Sunday as well. The franchise owner made the decision to temporarily shut down the establishment in light of the tragic event.