BETHLEHEM, Pa. — An 18-year-old New Jersey man is facing multiple charges after police say he opened fire inside a crowded South Side Bethlehem restaurant early Friday morning, injuring two people.
Incident Details
The shooting happened just after midnight Friday at Sizzling Bites Halal Grill, located along the 300 block of East Third Street.
According to investigators, Ashton Jordan Thomas, of Stewartsville, N.J., became involved in a confrontation outside the restaurant before returning inside wearing a mask. Witnesses told police Thomas approached a group near the entrance and was slapped by one of the men. Moments later, he allegedly pulled out a handgun and fired five shots toward the group.
Two victims — a man and a woman — were struck by the gunfire and rushed to a nearby hospital. Both remain in stable condition, authorities said.
Roughly 30 patrons were inside the restaurant at the time, and police estimate eight people were directly in the line of fire.
Suspect in Custody
Thomas later turned himself in and is now in custody. He faces a long list of charges, including:
- Attempted homicide
- Aggravated assault
- Recklessly endangering another person
- Carrying a firearm without a license
Police also confirmed that Thomas does not have a permit to carry a firearm.
Investigation and Community Impact
Surveillance video captured the suspect fleeing the scene with two other individuals in a vehicle bearing New Jersey license plates. Investigators worked with law enforcement in New Jersey to identify Thomas as the shooter.
Bethlehem police described the shooting as a reckless act that could have ended in far greater tragedy given the number of people inside the restaurant at the time.
“This was an extremely dangerous situation,” police said. “We are thankful no lives were lost.”
What’s Next
Thomas remains held on the charges as the investigation continues. Authorities have not released the identities of the victims, who are expected to recover
