UNION COUNTY, N.C. — Heartbreak ripples through Union County tonight after a shooting at a Taco Bell in Indian Trail left one man dead, devastating family, friends, and coworkers who are now mourning the loss of a beloved young man known affectionately as Tre.
According to the Union County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched to the Taco Bell restaurant around 8:45 p.m. Monday following reports of gunfire. When they arrived, they discovered an employee suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite the rapid response of emergency personnel, the victim was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Investigators say that early findings suggest the shooting was targeted, not a random act of violence. The motive behind the attack remains under investigation as detectives work tirelessly to identify and locate the suspect or suspects responsible.
Tre’s mother, overcome with grief, identified her son as the victim, sharing her heartbreak on social media as loved ones flooded her comments with condolences and prayers. Friends describe Tre as a hardworking, kindhearted young man who was always smiling, making people laugh, and striving to build a better future for himself and his family.
“This doesn’t make sense. He was just at work doing what he was supposed to do,” one close friend shared, expressing disbelief that such tragedy could strike someone so full of life and potential.
Community members and fellow Taco Bell employees gathered outside the restaurant Tuesday morning, leaving candles, flowers, and handwritten notes in remembrance of Tre. Many are calling for justice and peace, hoping those responsible are swiftly brought to account.
The Union County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. Detectives are reviewing surveillance footage from the area and speaking with witnesses in hopes of piecing together what led to the deadly encounter.
As the investigation continues, the Indian Trail community mourns deeply for a life cut short far too soon — a son, a friend, and a cherished member of the local Taco Bell team whose absence will be felt by all who knew him.
Rest in peace, Tre. Your smile, your energy, and your spirit will never be forgotten.
