A confrontation involving several men at an In-N-Out restaurant in Tempe, Arizona, turned into a shooting early Sunday, September 20, leaving one man injured by bullet fragments.
The incident happened shortly after midnight at the restaurant near South Calle Los Cerros Drive and West Baseline Road, according to authorities. Police said the firearm discharged during a struggle after one of the men involved in the fight pulled out a gun.
Fight Escalated When Gun Was Pulled
Tempe police said a physical altercation broke out among a group of men at the restaurant. During the confrontation, one man produced a firearm.
A struggle then developed over the weapon. During that struggle, the gun went off, sending bullet fragments into another man, authorities said.
The injured man was transported to a hospital for treatment. Police later confirmed that he was released several hours after the incident.
Suspect Fled Before Police Arrived
The person who had the firearm left the area following the shooting, according to police. Investigators are continuing efforts to identify and locate the suspect.
Authorities have not publicly released the identities of either the injured man or the suspect. Police also have not disclosed what initially led to the fight or whether anyone has been arrested in connection with the incident.
The investigation remains active as detectives work to determine exactly what happened during the confrontation.
Police Investigation Continues
The shooting adds to a series of incidents involving fights or violence at Tempe fast-food locations this year. However, authorities have not indicated that the latest incident is connected to any previous confrontation.
For now, investigators are asking anyone with relevant information about the incident to assist with the ongoing investigation.
