Tragedy struck a Cleveland plastics plant on Monday morning when a shooting resulted in the deaths of two employees. Authorities confirm that the suspected shooter is yet to be apprehended as investigations unfold.
The incident occurred shortly after 10 a.m. at Barku Plastics, located just off Old Chattanooga Pike, southwest of downtown Cleveland. The Cleveland Police Department responded to reports of gunfire and discovered two men inside the facility who were pronounced dead at the scene. Both victims, identified as supervisors at Barku Plastics, were German citizens, although their names have not yet been released.
Investigators are treating the case as a double homicide. Evie West from the Cleveland Police described the event as “a very traumatic thing,” emphasizing the gravity of the situation. Law enforcement believes the suspect, a former employee of Barku Plastics, fled the scene in a vehicle that was later located at a residence in nearby Bradley County.
West noted that the authorities are actively gathering information to learn more about the suspect and the victims. The investigation is also being supported by the Bradley County Sheriff’s Office SWAT team as they work to ensure the safety of the surrounding community. Residents are advised to stay clear of the area until the suspect is in custody.
Barku Plastics LLC, established in 2003, specializes in custom plastic injection molding and profile extrusion, producing essential components for industries such as automotive, agriculture, and consumer goods. The company operates as a subsidiary of Barku Kunststofftechnik GmbH, a well-established German firm founded in 1977.
As this story develops, the Cleveland Police Department is committed to providing updates on the investigation and ensuring public safety. The community is rallying in response to this tragic event, highlighting the strength and resilience of those affected.