Tragedy at a Nashville Sam's Club: Frito‑Lay Worker Killed by a Stray Bullet

Early Sunday morning, just before dawn, a quiet Nashville warehouse was shattered by a single, unexpected crack. A bullet punched through the thin metal siding of a Sam’s Club on the 1300 block of Antioch Pike, ricocheting into the parking lot where 55‑year‑old Paris Carlock was doing a routine inventory of chips.

Carlock, a longtime Frito‑Lay employee from Murfreesboro, was walking the aisle when the round struck him in the head. Co‑workers rushed to his side, and first responders arrived within minutes, finding him slumped beside his truck. He was whisked to a local hospital, but despite the doctors’ best efforts, he was pronounced dead a short time later.

The Metro Nashville Police Department’s homicide unit has opened an investigation, and early clues suggest the gunfire may have originated from a nearby bar, Lavou Lounge. According to police, patrons were removed from the lounge by security after an argument broke out, but the dispute spilled onto the street. Witnesses reported hearing multiple shots as cars sped away, one of which apparently veered off and struck Carlock.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of one of our colleagues,” PepsiCo, the parent company of Frito‑Lay, said in a statement. “Our thoughts are with Paris’s family and loved ones, and we are cooperating fully with law‑enforcement officials.”

A spokesperson for Sam’s Club echoed the grief, adding, “We are heartbroken by this incident. Our priority is the safety of our employees and customers, and we will continue to support the investigation.”

Police are urging anyone who saw the shooting, heard the gunfire, or can identify the vehicles involved to call Crime Stoppers at 615‑742‑7463. Anonymous tips are eligible for a cash reward.

The incident has reignited concerns about stray‑bullet incidents in urban areas, especially when they occur near places of work. Community leaders are calling for more robust security measures around nightlife districts and better coordination between businesses and local law enforcement.

Paris Carlock’s sudden death has left a void in his family, friends, and the Frito‑Lay community. As the investigation continues, the city mourns a life cut short by an accident that could have been avoided.