Search continues for suspects in IHOP shooting

BATON ROUGE, La. (WAFB) - The two men who opened fire on a pair of IHOP restaurant employees Tuesday, killing one of them, remained on the run Wednesday morning.

The shooting happened behind the IHOP location on Siegen Lane as the two employees were on a smoke break.

The employee who died was identified as Courtney Whitfield, a 32-year-old male.

Deputies with the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff's Office are investigating a shooting outside... — Deputies with the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff's Office are investigating a shooting outside of the IHOP on Siegen Lane in Baton Rouge, La., in the early afternoon hours of Tuesday, May 25, 2021.(WAFB)

The other employee is expected to recover, authorities said Wednesday. His name was not released.

Witnesses say the two gunmen, both wearing red and white masks, drove up to the restaurant and opened fire. They then sped off in a vehicle that was later found several miles away abandoned and set on fire. The vehicle had previously been reported stolen from Livingston Parish.

The IHOP location where the shooting happened remained closed Wednesday morning.

Anyone with information on this case is urged to call Crime Stoppers at 344-STOP (7867).

Deputies with the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff's Office are investigating a shooting outside... — Deputies with the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff's Office are investigating a shooting outside of the IHOP on Siegen Lane in Baton Rouge, La., in the early afternoon hours of Tuesday, May 25, 2021.(WAFB)

Firefighters put out burning car in neighborhood on Hidden Ridge Lane near Stumberg Lane... — Firefighters put out burning car in neighborhood on Hidden Ridge Lane near Stumberg Lane following shooting at IHOP on Siegen Lane.(WAFB)

IHOP issued a statement to WAFB on Tuesday afternoon about the shooting outside of the restaurant on Siegen Lane:

“We’re currently working with the franchisee and local team to better understand the details surrounding the tragic and senseless incident that occurred at the Baton Rouge IHOP today. For now, the priority is on taking care of the guests and team members who were there. The restaurant team is working closely with and assisting authorities to piece together the events that unfolded. The restaurant is currently closed pending an investigation. This is a heartbreaking situation and our thoughts at this time are with the individuals and the families of those involved. Counseling for team members who request it, is available”.

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