Chaos at Big Ed’s: Mother’s Day Brunch Turns Frightening as Fight and Gunfire Erupt at Popular Raleigh Restaurant
Raleigh, NC – What was meant to be a peaceful and joyful Sunday morning quickly descended into chaos when a fight broke out and gunshots were fired at Big Ed’s Country Cooking, a well-known restaurant off Falls of Neuse Road in Raleigh. The violent incident occurred just before noon, shattering the calm of a Mother’s Day brunch and sending patrons fleeing for safety.
According to the Raleigh Police Department, officers responded around 11:50 a.m. to a report of shots fired in the 5000 block of Falls of Neuse Road, in the busy Corners Shopping Center. Upon arrival, authorities found three people injured as a result of the altercation.
Three People Injured, Chaos Unfolds
Police confirmed that two individuals were transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries stemming from the fight, while a third victim sustained a graze wound believed to be caused by gunfire. Thankfully, none of the injuries were reported to be critical.
By 12:45 p.m., police assured the public there was no ongoing threat, though no arrests had been made as of the latest update. The situation remains under active investigation, and authorities are working to identify suspects and determine the chain of events that led to the violence.
A photo shared with WRAL News by a witness showed a chaotic scene: yellow crime scene tape surrounded Big Ed’s restaurant, with Raleigh police cruisers and emergency responders on site. Dozens of patrons and employees were seen gathered outside, visibly shaken by the incident.
Mother’s Day Celebration Turned Frightening
The timing of the incident adds a layer of heartbreak to the ordeal. Big Ed’s, known for its homestyle Southern cooking and welcoming atmosphere, is a popular destination for Mother’s Day brunch, drawing families from across the city to celebrate together.
One man told WRAL News he had just brought his grandchildren to the restaurant after church when the violence erupted.
“I said, ‘Not again.’ I get up in the morning and I listen to the news, I go to bed at night and listen to the news, [and hear about shootings] in Raleigh, Durham and Fayetteville,” he said, expressing frustration and fear.
“It’s supposed to be a day about peace and harmony … everyone getting together and eating,” he added. “I’m scared for my grandkids.”
Multiple witnesses reported hearing the gunshots come from inside the restaurant, prompting panic and a rush to escape. Some patrons took cover under tables, while others ran toward the exits, unsure of what was happening.
A Community on Edge
This incident is yet another reminder of the growing concerns over public safety and gun violence, especially in places once considered sanctuaries for family and community gatherings. The fact that it occurred in broad daylight, during a family-oriented celebration, has left many residents shaken and asking hard questions.
“I’ve been coming to Big Ed’s for years. It’s part of our family tradition,” said a local mother who was just minutes away from arriving at the restaurant with her children when she received a frantic call from a friend inside. “Now I’m not sure if I’ll feel safe going back.”
The Corners Shopping Center, located near the intersection of Falls of Neuse Road and Millbrook Road, is a heavily trafficked area, especially on weekends. That an altercation there could escalate so quickly and violently has left both business owners and customers deeply concerned.
Investigation Continues
As of now, no arrests have been made, and police have not released information regarding suspects or motives. It remains unclear what triggered the fight or how many individuals were involved in the gunfire.
The Raleigh Police Department is urging anyone with information that may assist in the investigation to come forward. Tips can be submitted directly by calling 919-996-3335, or anonymously through Raleigh Crimestoppers by visiting www.raleighcrimestoppers.org and clicking “Leave a Tip.”
Authorities are also reviewing surveillance footage from businesses in the shopping center and interviewing witnesses in an effort to reconstruct the timeline of the incident.
A Call for Peace and Reflection
Sunday’s incident at Big Ed’s Country Cooking is more than just a crime scene—it’s a symbol of a troubling reality that gun violence continues to threaten everyday life. What was supposed to be a day of love and gratitude turned into a scene of fear and uncertainty, echoing the concerns shared by communities across the country.
For the residents of Raleigh and the many families who call Big Ed’s a tradition, the hope now is for accountability, healing, and a renewed commitment to ensuring that places of peace don’t become scenes of panic.
As the investigation continues, the community holds its breath, hoping for justice—and praying for the day when a simple brunch with loved ones is never again interrupted by violence.