Accident – Death – Obituary News :
The Waffle House Shooting in Lynchburg
Imagine sitting down in a cozy Waffle House in Lynchburg, Virginia, eagerly waiting for your food when suddenly, a group of men storms in and starts a fight with another customer. This is exactly what happened leading up to the tragic events that unfolded on a Sunday afternoon.
The Incident
According to court documents obtained by WDBJ7 from the Lynchburg Courthouse, a man was peacefully waiting for his order when the group of men entered the restaurant. They surrounded him, sparking a confrontation that escalated quickly. Security footage captured one of the men from the group stepping outside the building and firing a shot through the glass window, striking a woman in the face.
The Suspect
After reviewing the security footage, detectives identified the suspect as Omarian Fitch, who was seen with a distinct marking on the left side of his face. A confidential source provided the name “Omari,” which led to Fitch’s identification. Interestingly, Fitch’s facial description matched a mugshot from a previous traffic stop in March 2024.
The Arrest
Following the identification of the suspect, law enforcement officers located Fitch fleeing the scene in a dark-colored Nissan. They found multiple bullet cartridge casings in the parking lot, further linking him to the crime. Additionally, Shantia Turpin, a 22-year-old from Lynchburg, was arrested and charged with accessory after the fact, felony eluding police, and obstruction of justice. The specifics of Turpin’s involvement have not been disclosed.
Community Response
In light of the tragic shooting at the Waffle House, Lynchburg Mayor Stephanie Reed has called for unity and action to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. The community has come together to support the victims and their families, emphasizing the importance of safety and security in public spaces.
As more details emerge from the investigation, the residents of Lynchburg remain vigilant and united in their efforts to promote peace and safety within their community..