Route 22 Chick-fil-A Shooting: 1 Dead, Multiple Injured in 'War Zone' Attack
April 12, 2026
A mass shooting at a Route 22 Chick-fil-A in Union, New Jersey, occurred just before 9 p.m. on a Saturday, leaving one dead and several others injured as masked attackers stormed inside and fired behind the counter.
The restaurant was locked down as investigators processed the scene for evidence, with witnesses describing the area as chaotic and a father recounting fear during his call to a son at the scene.
Early reports described the scene as a 'war zone' by witnesses, underscoring the suddenness and severity of the attack.
Governor Mikie Sherrill condemned the tragedy, urged vigilance, and asked the public to report information to help investigators.
The governor also expressed condolences and urged anyone with information to contact authorities.
Dashcam video shows a masked gunman fleeing the scene, contributing to the public understanding of the incident.
The Homicide Task Force of the Union County Prosecutor’s Office is leading the investigation.
Officials say the investigation is ongoing, actively seeking the shooter(s) and reviewing evidence from the incident.
911 audio obtained indicates responders described multiple gunshot victims and a wounded unconscious witness on the scene.
The restaurant remained closed with a heavy police presence, and some workers were believed to be inside during the investigation.
There is uncertainty about the number of injured and fatalities at the time, with no official casualty count released yet.
Public tips can be submitted by phone or online through Union County’s TIP portal, offering a pathway for evidence and information.
Summary based on 5 sources
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Sources

New York Post • Apr 12, 2026
Multiple people injured as shooting breaks out at New Jersey Chick-fil-A: report
New York Post • Apr 12, 2026
Masked gunman seen fleeing NJ Chick-fil-A after mass shooting — as harrowing 911 call is revealed
New York Post • Apr 12, 2026
1 dead in NJ Chick-fil-A mass shooting after masked gunmen storm restaurant