Family remembers woman killed in Church’s Chicken shooting

MEMPHIS, Tennessee – The family of a woman who was shot and killed while working at Church’s Chicken is mourning the tragic loss of their loved one and remains hopeful that the perpetrator will soon be caught.

Arnita West’s family is remembering their beloved mother, daughter and wife. In a heartbreaking tribute, they shared a photo of their happy family reunion, featuring Arnita’s beaming smile.

“There’s Arnita,” said Loranzo West Sr., Arnita’s father-in-law. “Those were good days. Great days.”

West Sr. fondly remembers Arnita, whom he knew since her youth. He describes her as a lively and outspoken person.

“She was a good girl. I’m going to miss her. You always miss the ones who are different. She wasn’t just a conformist. She was different. And when that one isn’t there, it’s like something is missing,” West Sr. said. “I don’t have daughters-in-law, I have daughters. When she married into the family, I told her, ‘You’re my daughter now.'”

Arnita was shot and killed Monday night at Church’s Chicken on Park Avenue after arguing with a woman in a teal SUV. Police say the gunman with purple hair argued with West at the drive-thru before returning and firing a fatal shot.

The restaurant will remain closed during the investigation. West Sr. believes the suspect will be caught soon.

“If she runs, she’ll get tired soon. She’s probably somewhere right now, wishing she hadn’t done what she did,” he said. “I guarantee you she regrets everything she did that night. She even regrets going there to get chicken.”

A statement from 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 are with the family during this difficult time. We are working closely with the Memphis Police Department in the ongoing investigation.”

Police are reviewing surveillance footage and are asking anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers at 528-CASH.