Hero bystander confronts gunman in deadly restaurant attack

An afternoon shooting erupted at a fast food restaurant in Idaho, leaving several people dead and others injured.

According to US media reports, authorities in Twin Falls responded to reports of gunfire near an In-N-Out Burger, later confirming that the suspected gunman had also died at the scene and that there was no ongoing threat to the public.

Emergency crews were dispatched to Blue Lakes Boulevard at around 2.30 pm, where law enforcement officers found a chaotic scene.

Videos seen by TNX Africa, captured by witnesses, showed panic unfolding in the busy commercial area near the Twin Falls Visitor Centre, with shoppers and visitors running for safety.

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One video showed the suspected gunman, dressed in a black T-shirt and blue jeans, firing shots in the parking lot. Another clip appeared to show a bystander returning fire in an attempt to stop the attacker.

Several injured victims were rushed to St. Luke's Magic Valley Medical Centre for treatment.

Speaking at an evening news briefing, Twin Falls Police Chief Matthew Hicks declined to confirm the number of casualties, saying authorities were still notifying the families of the victims. He added that investigators had yet to confirm the identity of the gunman or establish a motive for the attack.

Idahoans, join me in keeping the Twin Falls community in your prayers as law enforcement and first responders respond to an active shooter situation near In-N-Out.

Please avoid the area and follow directions from law enforcement as they work to keep everyone safe.

— Brad Little (@GovernorLittle) August 1, 2026

The area remains cordoned off as local police, assisted by FBI agents, collect evidence and interview witnesses.

Idaho Governor Brad Little urged the public to support first responders and those affected by the tragedy.

On X, Little wrote, "Idahoans, join me in keeping the Twin Falls community in your prayers as law enforcement and first responders respond to an active shooter situation near In-N-Out. Please avoid the area and follow directions from law enforcement as they work to keep everyone safe."

Authorities have appealed to anyone who witnessed the shooting or recorded video footage to contact the Twin Falls Police Department as investigations continue.

On social media, many praised a bystander who reportedly confronted the gunman.

Conservative commentator Nick Sortor wrote on X, "An absolute PATRIOT put his LIFE on the line and engaged the shooter at a Twin Falls, ID drive-thru. This man exited his car and returned fire to force an active shooter to retreat, undoubtedly saving countless lives. A TRUE HERO."