An altercation between two employees at Martin’s Restaurant in Kennesaw culminated in a shooting when one employee's husband, identified as 46-year-old Jeffrey Alan Thomas, opened fire inside the establishment Saturday morning, according to FOX 5 Atlanta. Kennesaw Police responded to the scene at approximately 8:40 a.m. and secured the area promptly, ensuring no further threat to patrons.
The dispute grew physical, and in the turmoil, Thomas discharged multiple shots, later fleeing with his wife who, only recognized after the fact, had suffered a minor gunshot wound, this information according to an Atlanta News First report. Police managed to track down Thomas and his wife at their residence, making the arrest after questioning both parties involved in the incident.
Following the arrest, Thomas faces several charges including aggravated assault, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, criminal damage to property, and cruelty to children, the latter stemming from a child's presence in the restaurant during the shooting, as detailed by police and reported by FOX 5 Atlanta. He was held at the Cobb County Adult Detention Center with no bond offered.
In reflection of the gravity of the situation, Police Chief Bill Westenberger spoke on the incident "This was a dangerous situation that could have had a much worse outcome," as he commended the swift actions of the officers and partners with the Cobb County Police Department who acted quickly to ensure the suspect was taken into custody for the safety of the community, he said this in a statement obtained by Atlanta News First.
As the investigation continues, Martin’s Restaurant has yet to issue a public statement regarding the incident, despite attempts by media to contact the establishment for comment.
