Inset: Maurice Evans (Fulton County Jail). Background: Bojangles in Palmetto, Georgia, where Evans allegedly shot a man dead in the parking lot (Google Maps).
A tragic incident unfolded in Georgia when a 25-year-old manager at a Bojangles restaurant allegedly shot and killed the father of an employee during a confrontation in the establishment’s parking lot.
Authorities have charged Maurice Evans with murder, aggravated assault, and unlawfully possessing a firearm during a crime, following the death of Dominique Goodman. Police reports indicate that officers were dispatched to the Bojangles located at 9135 Roosevelt Highway, in the Atlanta suburb of Palmetto, around 1:15 p.m. in response to a reported shooting.
Upon arrival, officers discovered Goodman deceased in the parking area. According to a report from NBC affiliate WXIA, the victim’s teenage daughter, who is employed at the restaurant, had contacted her father due to an issue with her manager.
Family friend Marlene Lately explained to the TV station, “Apparently, there was some kind of disagreement between her and the manager, prompting her to call her dad. Naturally, he came to address the situation for his daughter.”
The argument between Goodman and Evans escalated in the parking lot, resulting in Evans allegedly shooting Goodman. Law enforcement arrested Evans, who is now being held at the Fulton County Jail.
In a separate conversation with local ABC affiliate WSB, Lately condemned the incident as a senseless act of violence.
“These people need to put these guns down, and [Evans] should’ve gone home like the [other] manager told him and none of this would’ve happened. She would have a father. They would have their cousin and their brother, and you know, it’s at the holiday,” Lately said.
A Bojangles spokesperson sent the following statement to Law&Crime:
“We are aware of the tragic incident that occurred at a franchised restaurant location in Palmetto, Georgia. Our hearts go out to the victim and all those impacted by this senseless act. The safety of our guests and team members is always our top priority. The franchisee is fully cooperating with local law enforcement as they conduct their investigation. We strongly condemn all acts of violence. Out of respect for everyone involved and the integrity of the ongoing investigation, we will defer further details to the police.”
