Full Breakdown
Stray Bullet from Nearby Bar Kills Frito-Lay Worker Inside Nashville Sam’s Club
9/8/2026, 12:30:36 PM
Core Event
A 55-year-old Frito-Lay employee, Paris Carlock of Murfreesboro, was conducting a routine product inventory in the chip aisle of a Sam’s Club on Antioch Pike when a bullet penetrated the store’s metal side wall and struck him in the head. He was rushed to Vanderbilt University Medical Center, where he later died. Metro Nashville Police Department (MNPD) investigators linked the gunfire to an argument that began inside Lavo Lounge, a bar located less than a quarter-mile from the warehouse-style store. Security removed the participants from the lounge, but the dispute continued outside, and multiple shots were heard as vehicles fled the scene. Police have not released descriptions of any suspects or vehicles and have not announced any arrests.
Background & Context
Lavo Lounge has been the focus of repeated community complaints about nightly disturbances. Earlier incidents, including a 2021 shooting after an argument inside the venue’s restroom, have prompted local officials to monitor the establishment.
Official Statements & Responses
- Metro Nashville Police: The homicide unit opened an investigation, describing Carlock as an “innocent” victim with no connection to the altercation. Detectives are pursuing leads and have asked the public to provide information about the gunfire and any vehicles involved.
- PepsiCo (parent of Frito-Lay): The company expressed “deep sadness” over the loss, offering condolences to Carlock’s family and confirming ongoing cooperation with law-enforcement officials.
- Sam’s Club: A spokesperson said the retailer is “heartbroken” by the incident and will continue to work closely with investigators.
- Councilmember David Benton: Benton emphasized the need for additional funding for crime-reduction initiatives and cited the city’s nuisance-abatement law as a tool to address repeated disturbances linked to nightlife venues.
Community Reaction
Local shoppers described the incident as a stark reminder of escalating violence in the neighborhood.
Advocates for gun-violence prevention, such as Talia Gooch of the AnTwand Covington Jr. Foundation, highlighted the broader impact on families, recalling her own son’s death in a 2012 shooting and urging city leaders to take concrete action.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We are deeply saddened by the passing of one of our colleagues,” — Both PepsiCo, spokesperson — Both PepsiCo, spokesperson
- “Anyone with information about the gunfire and/or the vehicles involved is asked to call Nashville Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463,” — Police — Police
- “I wish that it didn’t happen,” — Paris Carlock, of Murfreesboro — Paris Carlock, of Murfreesboro
- “We've had several calls coming from this club and have worked with their security in the past. We're also working with Commander Lovell, the Beer Board and Office of Nightlife to work on addressing issues with this club and others. Money to operate crime reduction initiatives is needed,” — David Benton — David Benton
- “When my son was killed at a Sweet 16 party, same thing kind of happened,” — Talia Gooch — Talia Gooch
What’s Next
The MNPD homicide unit continues to collect leads, and investigators have asked anyone with information about the gunfire, the individuals involved, or the vehicles seen leaving the scene to contact Nashville Crime Stoppers. No further arrests have been announced, and the investigation remains open.
