Palmetto, GA – Police are investigating a deadly confrontation outside a Bojangles restaurant in South Fulton County after a manager allegedly shot and killed the father of a teenage employee who had come to help his daughter during a workplace dispute.
A 25-year-old manager, Maurice Evans, has been charged with murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime in the death of Dominique Goodman, according to investigators. Officers responded around 1:15 p.m. to the Bojangles located at 9135 Roosevelt Highway, where they found Goodman dead in the parking lot.
What Led to the Confrontation
Goodman’s teenage daughter, who works at the restaurant, had reportedly called her father to the scene after she experienced a conflict with her supervisor. A family friend said the situation escalated quickly once Goodman arrived.
Marlene Lately, who spoke with local reporters, explained that the daughter reached out for support when tensions rose inside the restaurant.
“I guess her and the manager might have got into it or something like that, so she called her dad, which any child would do, and the dad came up there to see about his daughter,” Lately said.
An argument then unfolded between Goodman and Evans in the parking lot. During the confrontation, Evans allegedly drew a firearm and shot Goodman, killing him at the scene. Police arrested Evans shortly afterward and transported him to the Fulton County Jail, where he remains held without bond.
Family and Community Reaction
Loved ones described the killing as a preventable tragedy, especially occurring during the holiday season. Lately, who has supported the family since the shooting, expressed deep frustration over what happened.
“These people need to put these guns down, and Evans should’ve gone home like the other manager told him and none of this would’ve happened,” she said. “She would have a father. They would have their cousin and their brother, and you know, it’s at the holiday.”
The violent nature of the confrontation has shaken the community and raised concerns about workplace conflicts that escalate beyond control.
Response From Bojangles
A spokesperson for Bojangles issued a statement acknowledging the incident and expressing condolences to the victim’s family. The company emphasized its commitment to safety while noting that the location involved is operated by a franchisee.
The statement read in part:
“We are aware of the tragic incident that occurred at a franchised restaurant location in Palmetto, Georgia. Our hearts go out to the victim and all those impacted by this senseless act. The safety of our guests and team members is always our top priority… We strongly condemn all acts of violence.”
The company added that the franchise owner is fully cooperating with police as the investigation continues.
What Investigators Are Working to Determine
Detectives are now reviewing witness statements, surveillance footage, and workplace communication to understand how a dispute between an employee and manager escalated to a fatal shooting. Investigators have not yet released additional details about the argument inside the restaurant or the moments immediately leading up to the gunfire.
A Tragic Reminder About Workplace Conflicts
Incidents like this highlight how quickly everyday disagreements can turn deadly when weapons are involved. Public safety experts note that workplaces should adopt stronger conflict-management protocols, especially in settings where young employees work under high-stress conditions.
Parents and guardians are often the first people young workers call when they feel unsafe or mistreated, making it critical for businesses to ensure disputes can be resolved peacefully without risk of violence.
Community Impact Moving Forward
As the investigation continues, Goodman’s family is left grieving the loss of a father, relative, and community member. Those close to him hope the case brings awareness to the consequences of carrying and misusing firearms during emotional disputes.
Authorities have not yet announced a court date for Evans.
If you live in the Palmetto area or work near Roosevelt Highway, share your thoughts or experiences in the comments below.
