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Authorities in Collierville continue to investigate the mass shooting at a Kroger in the Memphis suburb, and now they have confirmed that the suspected gunman had a connection to Nashville.
On Thursday afternoon (September 23), a shooter entered the grocery store on Byhalia and Poplar Avenue and opened fired on employees and customers. In total, 15 people were shot, 10 employees and five customers. One woman, identified as Olivia King, a mother of 3, died from her injuries.
The alleged gunman was identified as 29-year-old UK Thang, a third-party vendor at the store and not a direct employee. He was found dead at the scene of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. A vehicle connected with the shooter was located nearby, and Collierville officials confirmed that the license plates are from Davidson County, per FOX 17. Police Chief Dale Lane would not comment on any connection the gunman may have to Nashville.
In addition to the Davidson County plates, agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation visited a home in Antioch on Thursday night following up on leads, however no one answered the door. Neighbors tell WKRN that the home belongs to the suspected shooter's parents.
A spokesperson for Kroger issued a statement on Friday saying the company is "horrified and heartbroken over the senseless violence," adding that they are initiating counseling services for associates, WKRN reports.
"The entire Kroger family offers our thoughts, prayers and support to those impacted by this tragedy, including our associates, customers and first responders, and their families," the statement reads in part. "The store will remain closed while law enforcement completes their investigation. We are continuing to provide our associates with pay as well as support through our Helping Hands fund."