A devastating and shocking crime unfolded at the North Hills shopping center in Raleigh, North Carolina, on Friday, leaving one man dead, two others injured, and a community in shock. The Raleigh Police Department (RPD) has confirmed an ongoing investigation into the fatal shooting, which occurred at the Coquette Brasserie restaurant.

According to Chief Estella Patterson, the shooting resulted in the death of one man, identified as 42-year-old Executive Chef George Colom, and injuries to two others. The gunman, who has not been identified, turned the firearm on himself after shooting Colom and is currently in critical condition, receiving medical care.

A third individual, possibly a bystander, sustained non-life-threatening injuries. The exact nature of how this individual was injured has not been disclosed. Chief Patterson reassured the public that there is no ongoing threat to the community, and the area remains secure as law enforcement processes the scene.

Initially, four nearby schools were placed on lockdown as a precaution, but those measures have since been lifted. The incident has led to significant traffic disruptions in the North Hills area, with Six Forks Road closed near the shopping center. Southbound traffic is being redirected via Northbrook Drive to I-440, while northbound traffic is being rerouted to Falls of Neuse Road.

The RPD issued a public advisory through their official X (formerly Twitter) account shortly after the shooting, confirming the location in the 4300 block of The Circle at North Hills Street. Authorities emphasized early on that this was not an active shooter situation. Security personnel at North Hills placed the central district of the shopping mall under lockdown during the initial response, but that lockdown has now been lifted.

The investigation remains active, with a large police presence still at the scene. Raleigh police are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Chef George Colom, and our thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time,” said Chief Estella Patterson. “We will do everything in our power to ensure that justice is served in this case.”

As the investigation continues, the community remains in shock, grappling with the senseless violence that has shaken their lives. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of George Colom, and we hope that justice will be served in this tragic case.

IN-DEPTH LOOK AT GEORGE COLOM’S BACKGROUND

George Colom, 42, was a well-respected and accomplished chef in the Raleigh culinary scene. He had been working as the Executive Chef at Coquette Brasserie for several years, where he was known for his creativity and passion for cooking.

“George was an amazing chef and an even better person,” said a colleague. “He will be deeply missed by everyone who knew him.”

Colom was also an active member of the Raleigh community, often participating in local food festivals and charity events.

INVESTIGATION UPDATE

The investigation into the fatal shooting is ongoing, with the RPD working to piece together the events leading up to the shooting. Authorities are reviewing security footage and interviewing witnesses to determine the motive behind the crime.

“We are following up on several leads and interviewing multiple witnesses,” said Chief Estella Patterson. “We will do everything in our power to ensure that justice is served in this case.”

COMMUNITY REACTION

The community is reeling from this senseless act of violence, with many expressing shock and sadness at the loss of George Colom. Friends and family have taken to social media to pay tribute to the victim, remembering him as a kind and talented individual.

“George was an amazing person, with a heart of gold,” said a friend. “He will be deeply missed by everyone who knew him.”

A candlelight vigil is being planned for tonight at 7:00 p.m. at the North Hills shopping center, to honor the memory of George Colom.

As the investigation continues, the community remains in shock, grappling with the senseless violence that has shaken their lives. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of George Colom, and we hope that justice will be served in this tragic case.