Tragic Stray Bullet Claims Life of Frito‑Lay Worker at Nashville Sam’s Club

Early Sunday morning, just before dawn, the quiet of a Sam’s Club warehouse on Antioch Pike was shattered by an unexpected report of gunfire. According to the Metro Nashville Police Department, a bullet pierced the metal side wall of the store around 4 a.m., ricocheting into the parking lot where it struck a worker in the head.

The victim was identified as Paris Carlock, 55, a longtime Frito‑Lay employee from Murfreesboro. He was in the middle of a routine inventory check in the chip aisle when the stray round hit him. First responders found Carlock lying in the lot and rushed him to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

PepsiCo, the parent company of Frito‑Lay, issued a statement expressing deep sorrow: “We are heartbroken by the loss of a colleague. Our thoughts are with his family and friends.” The company said it is cooperating fully with investigators.

Police say the bullet may have been tied to a heated argument that erupted at Lavou Lounge, a bar just a stone’s throw from the warehouse. Security removed the disputing parties, but they continued arguing outside, and witnesses reported hearing gunshots as vehicles sped away.

The MNPD Homicide Unit has opened a homicide investigation. Detectives are asking anyone who saw the shooting, heard the gunfire, or noticed any suspicious vehicles to contact Crime Stoppers at (615) 742‑7463. Tips can be submitted anonymously and may qualify for a cash reward.

A Sam’s Club spokesperson added, “We are devastated by this tragedy. Our priority is the safety of our guests and employees, and we will continue to work closely with law enforcement.”

The incident has left the community stunned, reminding residents that even routine work environments can be vulnerable to violence that erupts far from the actual site of conflict.