A routine work shift ended in tragedy in Nashville, Tennessee, when a 55-year-old Frito-Lay employee was killed inside a Sam’s Club after being struck by a stray bullet.
The victim, identified as Paris Carlock of Murfreesboro, was performing inventory duties in the chip aisle shortly after 4:00 a.m. when gunfire penetrated the building’s exterior metal wall and hit him in the head.
Escalation outside nearby lounge
According to the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department, the stray bullet was tied to an altercation that originated down the street at Lavo Lounge. Security guards had removed several individuals following a dispute inside the establishment.
However, the argument spilled out into the parking lot, leading to multiple gunshots being fired as several vehicles sped away from the venue.
One of those rounds traveled across the area, breached the warehouse store’s wall and struck Carlock.
Emergency response and ongoing investigation
Co-workers rushed to Carlock’s assistance inside the store before emergency responders arrived. He was rushed to Vanderbilt University Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead. Police described Carlock as a completely innocent bystander who had no connection to the fight.
Both PepsiCo (parent company of Frito-Lay) and Sam’s Club issued statements expressing deep heartbreak over the loss and confirming full cooperation with law enforcement.
The Metro Nashville Police Homicide Unit is actively pursuing leads and searching for the vehicles and suspects involved. Authorities urge anyone with relevant information to contact Nashville Crime Stoppers.
