New Details Highlight Actions of Bystanders Who Assisted During the Twin Falls In-N-Out Incident
A busy Saturday afternoon turned into a large-scale emergency when a shooting at a Twin Falls, Idaho, In-N-Out Burger left multiple families grieving and a community in shock.
The attack occurred on August 1, 2026, shortly before 2:30 p.m. near the intersection of Blue Lakes Boulevard and Fillmore Street. The recently opened restaurant—the company’s fourth in Idaho—was crowded with customers inside, in the drive-thru, and visiting nearby businesses. Gunfire suddenly erupted, causing confusion as some witnesses initially mistook the shots for construction noise before fleeing.
Authorities identified the suspect as 24-year-old Chad Williams. According to witness Lane Koehn, a construction worker nearby, the gunman appeared disorganized as he moved through the parking lot. Investigators confirmed that three people were killed and seven others were injured in the attack. Among those killed was an In-N-Out employee, as confirmed by company President Lynsi Snyder.
Several individuals took heroic action during the attack:
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Jordan Salinas: A healthcare worker from Kimberly, Idaho, who arrived for lunch and was carrying a legally possessed handgun, responded to the gunfire.
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An Off-Duty Idaho State Trooper: Joined Salinas in confronting the gunman and returning fire.
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Austin “A.J.” Scott: Seriously injured after moving toward danger to protect others. He faced multiple surgeries and a lengthy rehabilitation process.
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Terry Dudley: Shot and seriously injured while inside his vehicle charging nearby. He underwent emergency treatment and remained hospitalized.
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A Retired EMT: Immediately provided emergency medical care alongside bystanders to an injured restaurant worker until first responders arrived.
Twin Falls County Sheriff Jack Johnson praised Salinas and the off-duty trooper, stating that their intervention redirected the suspect away from the crowded drive-thru toward an open area near the visitor center, preventing additional casualties.
The incident ended when the gunman died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Investigators confirmed he acted alone and there is no ongoing threat to the public, though a motive has not yet been established. The suspect’s family is cooperating fully with the investigation.
Salinas publicly thanked well-wishers but asked that the focus remain on the victims and their families. Meanwhile, community members have organized memorials and fundraising efforts to support the victims, survivors, and their families as the community begins to heal.