Union County, North Carolina -Heartbreak and sorrow weigh heavy on the community of Indian Trail after the tragic and senseless loss of Tre Hobbs, a bright, kind, and hardworking young man whose life was taken far too soon during a targeted shooting at Taco Bell on Monday night.
According to the Union County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to the restaurant around 8:45 p.m. after multiple reports of gunfire. When they arrived, they found Tre—an employee of the restaurant—suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite the quick actions of first responders, Tre was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Authorities believe the shooting was targeted, and the investigation remains active as detectives work to identify and locate those responsible. For now, the community is left to mourn, reflect, and remember the life of a young man who meant so much to so many.
Tre’s mother confirmed his passing in a heart-wrenching post online, writing, “My baby didn’t deserve this.” Her pain is echoed by countless others who knew and loved Tre. Family, friends, and coworkers have flooded social media with tributes, photos, and memories, describing him as a sweet soul with a contagious smile and a heart full of kindness.
Those who worked alongside Tre say he wasn’t just a coworker — he was family. Always quick to make others laugh, offer a helping hand, or brighten a shift with his energy and humor, Tre’s presence left a mark that won’t soon fade.
“He was doing what he always did — working hard, staying out of trouble, and trying to better himself,” one close friend shared tearfully. “He didn’t deserve this. None of this makes sense.”
By Tuesday morning, the Taco Bell where Tre worked had transformed into a place of love and remembrance. Friends, coworkers, and community members gathered outside, lighting candles, laying flowers, and leaving handwritten messages that read “Fly high, Tre” and “We love you forever.”
The outpouring of love for Tre has been overwhelming — a reflection of the joy he brought into people’s lives and the deep sadness felt by those now forced to say goodbye.
As the investigation continues, the Union County Sheriff’s Office urges anyone with information about the shooting to come forward, hoping justice will soon be served for Tre and his grieving family.
For now, the community clings to memories of his laughter, his light, and his love — the parts of Tre that no tragedy can ever take away.
The Rest in Heaven, Tre Hobbs. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Your spirit lives on in every life you touched.
“Those we love don’t go away; they walk beside us every day.”
