Charles Whipple Arrested Following Drive-Through Shooting at Marana In-N-Out

MARANA, Arizona — A man was injured and a suspect was taken into custody following an afternoon shooting at an In-N-Out restaurant along Cortaro Road in Marana on Monday, September 28, 2026.

At approximately 2:52 p.m., Marana Police Department officers were dispatched to the In-N-Out location at 8180 N. Cortaro Road to conduct a welfare check. While officers were en route, nearby officers investigating an unrelated matter heard multiple gunshots originating from the restaurant area and responded immediately. Upon arrival, first responders located an adult male victim suffering from a gunshot wound near his vehicle in the parking lot. Officers encountered the suspect, identified as Charles Whipple, holding the victim at gunpoint. Police detained Whipple without further incident and administered initial first aid to the victim before emergency medical personnel transported him to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Official Status and Criminal Investigation

The Marana Police Department has opened an active criminal investigation into the incident and formally charged the suspect.

According to preliminary investigative findings, the confrontation began when the victim's vehicle remained stopped in the drive-through lane for an extended duration. Whipple reportedly confronted the driver before the vehicle moved through the queue. Investigators allege Whipple then crossed the parking lot to intercept the vehicle at the drive-through exit, firing three rounds into the driver’s-side window as the vehicle pulled forward. One bullet or projectile fragment struck the victim. Whipple allegedly ordered the injured driver out of the car at gunpoint until responding officers took him into custody. Whipple was booked into jail on charges of second-degree attempted homicide and endangerment. The department’s Public Information Office (MPDPIO@MaranaAZ.gov) is urging anyone with additional information to contact police.

Community Tributes and Family Support

News of the violent drive-through confrontation has drawn concern from local residents and patrons across Pima County.

Community members expressed relief that the victim is expected to survive his injuries, offering wishes for a full and speedy recovery. Deepest sympathies and support continue to be extended to the victim, his family, and all who were impacted by this unsettling event.