A tragic scene unfolded Tuesday afternoon at a Kroger supermarket in Southgate, where police say a store employee was fatally stabbed by a coworker during an altercation.
According to the Southgate Police Department, officers were called to the Kroger located near Fort Street and Pennsylvania Road around 1:30 p.m. after reports of a stabbing inside the store. When officers arrived, they found an employee suffering from multiple stab wounds.
Emergency crews immediately began life-saving measures, but despite their efforts, the victim was pronounced dead at the scene. Police have confirmed that the suspect, also a Kroger employee, was taken into custody without further incident.
Authorities believe the deadly confrontation stemmed from a dispute between the two coworkers while on the job. Police have not yet released the names of either individual pending family notification.
Shoppers and employees were evacuated from the store as officers secured the area and began their investigation. A large police presence, including crime scene units, remained on-site for several hours Tuesday afternoon as investigators collected evidence and reviewed surveillance footage.
In a brief statement, a Kroger spokesperson expressed the company’s condolences and confirmed cooperation with law enforcement:
“We are deeply saddened by this tragic incident involving members of our store team. Our thoughts are with the victim’s family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. We are working closely with Southgate Police as they conduct their investigation.”
Police have not yet disclosed what led to the altercation or whether any prior disputes between the employees had been reported. Detectives continue to interview witnesses and review store security footage to determine the exact sequence of events.
Officials have stated that there is no ongoing threat to the public, and the suspect remains in custody as charges are being prepared.
The Southgate Police Department is urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has information related to the case to contact their office or Crime Stoppers anonymously.
This remains an active and ongoing investigation.
