April 14, 2026

Deadly NJ restaurant shooting sparks urgent manhunt

$10K reward offered after deadly mass shooting at NJ restaurant leaves one dead

UNION, NJ – A late-night shooting inside a busy Route 22 restaurant left one man dead and six others wounded, as multiple gunmen opened fire and fled, triggering a multi-agency investigation now backed by a $10,000 reward.

The violence unfolded around 9 p.m. Saturday at a Chick-fil-A in Union, where police say several suspects entered the establishment and began shooting. The attack resulted in the death of 23-year-old Malek Shepherd of New York City.

Six additional victims were injured during the incident. Their conditions have not been detailed.

Investigators said the shooting does not appear to be random, though no suspects have been taken into custody. Authorities confirmed the individuals involved remain at large.

The Union County Homicide Task Force is leading the investigation, working to identify and locate those responsible.

Union County Crime Stoppers has announced a reward of up to $10,000 for information that leads to an indictment and conviction in the case.

Officials are urging anyone with information to come forward, including through anonymous tip lines, as the investigation continues.

Authorities stated there is no ongoing threat to the general public but advised residents to remain alert and report suspicious activity.


Key Points

  • One person killed and six injured in shooting at Union, NJ restaurant
  • Multiple gunmen remain at large as investigation continues
  • $10,000 reward offered for information leading to arrests