A deadly shooting outside a popular **sushi restaurant in Bentonville** on **Monday evening** has left one person dead and another critically injured, according to authorities. The tragic incident occurred around **8:30 p.m.** in the parking lot of the well-known eatery, where diners were caught off guard by the sudden burst of gunfire that shattered the calm evening atmosphere.
Police and emergency medical teams quickly arrived at the scene following multiple 911 calls reporting shots fired. Upon arrival, officers discovered two individuals suffering from gunshot wounds near the restaurant’s entrance. One victim was pronounced dead at the scene, while the second was rushed to a nearby hospital in **critical condition**. Officials have not yet released the names of the victims pending notification of their families.
Detectives with the **Bentonville Police Department** immediately secured the area, closing off nearby streets as they collected evidence and reviewed surveillance footage from surrounding businesses. Witnesses reported hearing several shots before seeing a dark-colored vehicle speeding away from the parking lot, prompting investigators to search for a possible suspect connected to the shooting.
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the shooting was targeted or random but emphasized that there is **no ongoing threat to the public**. Bentonville Police Chief **Jon Simpson** urged anyone with information or video footage from the area to come forward as the investigation continues.
The violent incident has deeply shaken the local community, known for its vibrant downtown dining scene and family-friendly atmosphere. Restaurant staff and nearby business owners have expressed shock and sadness over the tragedy. “This is not something you ever expect to happen here,” one witness said. As detectives work to determine a motive, the city mourns the loss of life and prays for the recovery of the surviving victim.
