A Frito-Lay employee conducting routine inventory inside a Nashville Sam’s Club was struck and killed by a stray bullet that penetrated the warehouse wall during an early morning dispute at a nearby bar.
Bullet Penetrates Store Wall During Inventory
Paris Carlock, 55, of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, was working in the chip aisle of the Sam’s Club location on the 1300 block of Antioch Pike around 4 a.m. Sunday when a bullet pierced through the metal exterior wall and struck him in the head. First responders discovered Carlock in the parking lot and transported him to a local hospital, where medical staff pronounced him dead. The Metro Nashville Police Department confirmed the incident occurred while Carlock was performing product inventory as part of his regular duties for the snack food company.
PepsiCo, the parent company of Frito-Lay, released a statement expressing condolences. “We are deeply saddened by the passing of one of our colleagues. Our sincere condolences are with their family members and loved ones. We have been working closely with law enforcement and local officials regarding the matter,” the company stated. Sam’s Club also addressed the tragedy, noting they remain heartbroken and committed to supporting the ongoing investigation.
Bar Dispute Linked To Fatal Shooting
The Metro Nashville Police Department Homicide Unit opened an investigation and identified a possible connection to an altercation at Lavou Lounge, a bar situated near the retail warehouse. Police investigators determined that individuals involved in an argument were removed from the establishment by security personnel but continued their dispute in the parking lot. Witnesses reported hearing gunshots as vehicles departed from the bar area, with at least one round traveling far enough to penetrate the Sam’s Club building where Carlock worked.
Authorities Seek Information
Detectives are asking anyone with knowledge about the shooting or the vehicles involved to contact Nashville Crime Stoppers at 615-742-7463. Police emphasized that tips can be submitted anonymously and may qualify for cash rewards. The investigation remains active as authorities work to identify suspects and determine the circumstances that led to gunfire in a commercial area during early morning hours. The incident highlights the danger of stray bullets in populated areas, even affecting workers inside what should be secure retail environments.