Worker at Church’s Chicken dies after getting into argument with customer in drive-thru

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC/Gray News) - A Tennessee family is remembering their loved one who was shot and killed while working at a fast-food restaurant Monday night.

Memphis police said a woman, who they did not immediately identify, got into an argument with a worker while in the drive-thru at a Church’s Chicken that evening.

According to investigators, the worker, later identified as 48-year-old Anitra West, walked outside to get some air before witnesses heard gunshots.

West was taken to an area hospital where she was pronounced dead.

Family and friends of West said she was a shining light and a beautiful soul.

“It doesn’t feel real yet because we haven’t been able to see her,” Anitra West’s ex-husband, Loranzo West, said.

Loranzo West said he was married to Anitra West for 16 years and they have a 12-year-old daughter together.

“I’m a better man because of her,” Loranzo West said. “That’s what will be missed the most.”

Anitra West’s family and friends said they will forever miss her.

“This is not the way it’s supposed to go, but I have optimism for my child because I’m going to do my part for her,” Loranzo West said.

A spokesperson with Church’s Chicken said the restaurant on Park Avenue will be closed for the next few days following the shooting.

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of one of our team members. Our thoughts and prayers go out to their family during this difficult time. We are working closely with the Memphis Police Department on their ongoing investigation,” Church’s Chicken shared in a statement.

Anyone with further information regarding the shooting has been urged to contact Memphis Crime Stoppers.

Copyright 2024 WMC via Gray Local Media, Inc. All rights reserved.