‘She was a good girl:’ Family remembers woman killed in shooting at Church’s Chicken
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The family of a woman shot and killed while working at a Church’s Chicken is mourning the tragic loss of their loved one, as they remain hopeful that the culprit will soon be caught.
Arnita West’s family is remembering their beloved mother, daughter, and wife. In a heart-wrenching tribute, they shared a photo of their happy family reunion, where Arnita’s bright smile shines through.
Church’s Chicken employee shot to death outside restaurant
“There’s Arnita right there,” said Loranzo West Sr., Arnita’s father-in-law. “Those were some good days. Great days.”
West Sr. fondly remembers Arnita, whom he had known since her teenage years. He describes her as a vibrant and outspoken person.
“She was a good girl. I’ll miss her, You always miss the ones that keep it different. She wasn’t just a fit-in type. She was different. And if that one’s not around, it’s like something’s missing,” said West Sr. “I don’t have daughter-in-laws, I have daughters. When she married into the family, I told her ‘You’re my daughter now.’”
Arnita was shot and killed at the Church’s Chicken on Park Avenue Monday night after an argument with a woman in a teal SUV. Police say the shooter with purple hair argued with West at the drive-thru before returning and firing a fatal shot.
The restaurant remains closed as the investigation continues. West Sr. says he believes the suspect will be caught soon.
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“If she is running, she’ll get tired soon. She’s probably somewhere right now wishing she hadn’t done what she’s done,” he said. “I guarantee you she’s regretting everything she did that night. She’s even regretting going there to even get some chicken.”
In a statement, Church’s Texas Chicken said in part, “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.”
Police are reviewing surveillance footage and urge anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers at 528-CASH.
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