The city of Twin Falls, Idaho, continues to mourn after a mass shooting at a recently opened In-N-Out Burger left multiple families grieving and an entire community searching for answers. The attack occurred on August 1, 2026, just days after the restaurant opened its doors, turning what should have been an ordinary Saturday afternoon into a devastating tragedy. Authorities say 24-year-old Chad Williams opened fire before later dying from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Investigators believe he acted alone, and the motive remains under investigation.
According to law enforcement, the shooting began shortly before 2:30 p.m. near the intersection of Blue Lakes Boulevard and Fillmore Street, one of the busiest commercial areas in Twin Falls. The newly opened restaurant had attracted large crowds throughout the day, with customers inside the dining area, waiting in the drive-thru, and walking through the surrounding shopping center. Within moments, the busy scene turned into chaos as gunfire sent customers, employees, and nearby shoppers running for safety. Emergency dispatchers quickly became overwhelmed with calls from frightened witnesses reporting an active shooter.
Police say three people lost their lives and seven others were injured during the attack. Officers and emergency medical crews responded rapidly, securing the area while treating victims and transporting the injured to nearby hospitals. Authorities later confirmed there was no ongoing threat to the public after the gunman was found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Even as investigators processed the crime scene, officials emphasized that determining the shooter’s motive would likely require a thorough examination of evidence, interviews, and digital records.
Several witnesses have since described the fear and confusion that unfolded during the attack. Some initially believed they had heard construction noises or another unrelated disturbance before realizing the sounds were gunfire. Others described seeing customers and employees sprinting toward parking lots while strangers helped one another find cover. Families who had simply stopped for lunch suddenly found themselves making split-second decisions to protect loved ones. Many survivors later said they were grateful for the quick actions of both first responders and ordinary citizens who assisted people trying to escape the danger.
Among those injured was Terry Dudley, who was reportedly sitting in his vehicle while charging it nearby when he was struck by gunfire. Family members later shared that he underwent emergency medical treatment and remained hospitalized as doctors continued caring for his injuries. Relatives described him as a devoted father who consistently put others before himself and expressed gratitude for the support they had received from the community. Friends and supporters also organized fundraising efforts to help the family manage medical expenses and the financial challenges created by his recovery.
Another person seriously injured during the attack was Austin “A.J.” Scott, who, according to family members, moved toward the danger after hearing gunfire in an effort to help protect others. His relatives later said he faced a lengthy recovery involving multiple surgeries and rehabilitation. They thanked medical personnel for the care he received while also expressing appreciation for the support shown by friends, neighbors, and members of the wider community. Authorities have not suggested that his actions were coordinated with law enforcement, but his family described his response as an instinctive effort to help those around him.
Investigators also credited two armed individuals with helping reduce the danger during the attack. One of them, Jordan Salinas, later spoke publicly about his experience. Salinas, a healthcare worker from nearby Kimberly, Idaho, said he initially believed something unusual was happening before realizing people were fleeing from gunfire. Carrying a legally owned handgun, he responded after recognizing the seriousness of the situation. According to investigators, his actions, together with those of an off-duty Idaho state trooper, diverted the shooter away from the crowded restaurant and toward a more open area, where the incident ultimately ended.
Twin Falls County Sheriff Jack Johnson publicly praised both men, describing their actions as courageous and stating that they likely prevented additional casualties. Authorities emphasized that their intervention changed the direction of the attack and provided valuable time for customers and employees to escape. While investigators continue examining every aspect of the incident, officials have repeatedly acknowledged the bravery shown by both the armed civilian and the off-duty officer during an extremely dangerous situation.
Following the shooting, Salinas thanked members of the public for their messages of encouragement while emphasizing that his thoughts remained with the victims, survivors, and grieving families. He said he planned to speak further about the experience when the appropriate time came but wanted the focus to remain on those directly affected by the tragedy. His comments echoed the broader message shared throughout Twin Falls, where community members have gathered to support victims and remember those whose lives were lost.
The tragedy also deeply affected In-N-Out Burger. Company president Lynsi Snyder confirmed that one of the restaurant’s employees was among those killed during the attack, describing the loss as heartbreaking. Family members later identified the employee as Ashley Garibay, who had traveled from California to assist with training staff at the newly opened restaurant. Friends and relatives remembered her as a caring young woman whose dedication and positive attitude left a lasting impression on those who knew her.
As investigators continue working to understand why the shooting occurred, officials have confirmed that the suspect’s family has cooperated with the investigation. Police have stated that the motive remains unknown and have urged the public to avoid speculation while detectives complete their work. Community vigils, messages of support, and fundraising efforts continue for victims and their families as Twin Falls begins the long process of healing. Authorities have also reassured residents that local law enforcement services remain fully available while neighboring agencies continue assisting with the extensive investigation.
