McDonald’s Employee Killed After Late-Night Shooting in Elberton

UPDATE: On Tuesday, December 10th, the 15-year-old suspect voluntarily surrendered to the Elberton PD. The victim was a 17-year-old male. The investigation has determined that the two individuals were known to one another, and the altercation that preceded the shooting stemmed from a dispute involving a mutual female acquaintance.

Original Post:

The Elberton Police Department is investigating a deadly shooting at the McDonald’s restaurant in the City of Elberton late Tuesday night.

On December 9, 2025, at about 10:19 p.m., officers were called to the restaurant after reports of gunfire inside the building. When officers arrived, the shooter had already fled the scene. Inside the lobby, officers found a male McDonald’s employee on the floor with multiple gunshot wounds.

Police began first aid and continued lifesaving efforts until Elbert County EMS personnel arrived and took over. The victim was rushed to Elbert Memorial Hospital, where he later died from his injuries.

According to preliminary findings, the shooting followed an argument between the employee and a male suspect inside the restaurant’s lobby. During the confrontation, the suspect opened fire before fleeing.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has taken ownership of the homicide investigation at the request of Elberton Police.

Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact the GBI Tip Line at 1-800-597-8477 or the Elberton Police Department at 706-213-3130.

Elberton Police extended their appreciation to Elbert County EMS, the Elbert County Sheriff’s Office, and the GBI for their assistance.