Waffle House employee shot dead by customer who got angry waiting for food

In a tragic incident in North Carolina, Waffle House employee, 18-year-old Burlie Dawson Locklear was shot and killed by an irate customer waiting for his food early Friday morning.

The shooting occurred at approximately 12:42 a.m. at a Waffle House in Laurinburg, located about 100 miles southwest of Raleigh.

Police responded to reports of gunfire at the restaurant and found Locklear suffering from a gunshot wound. He was transported to a hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.

The gunman, captured on surveillance footage, is described as a Black male with light skin, long dreadlocks, and a beard and mustache. He is estimated to be between 5-foot-8 and 5-foot-10 inches tall, weighing between 140 and 180 pounds.

At the time of the incident, he was wearing a dark blue pullover hoodie, blue jeans and white shoes.

According to police, the suspect ordered food but became agitated and verbally abusive while waiting for it to be prepared.

After receiving his order, he exited the restaurant, turned back, and fired two shots into the establishment, hitting Locklear, before fleeing in a dark gray 2014 Chevrolet.

In a statement, Waffle House expressed their condolences, mourning the loss of Locklear, who was affectionately known as “Dawson” to his friends and family. The business noted the horrific nature of his death and announced that they are providing free counseling services for employees affected by this tragic event.

They affirmed their commitment to cooperating with law enforcement in the ongoing investigation and expressed their determination to help bring the perpetrator to justice.

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Authorities are urging anyone with information about the shooting to contact Lt. J. White at the Laurinburg Police Department at 910-276-3211 or anonymously at 910-266-8146.