Tragic Workplace Shooting in Cleveland: Two Employees Killed, Suspect Takes Own Life
CLEVELAND, TENNESSEE — The Cleveland community is mourning after a devastating workplace shooting on Monday morning claimed the lives of two men and ended with the suspect taking his own life. Authorities say the tragic incident unfolded at Barku Plastics, a manufacturing facility located at 131 Corporate Drive SW, when an employee opened fire on his coworkers before fleeing the scene.
According to the Cleveland Police Department, officers were dispatched to the plant shortly after 10:21 a.m. following multiple reports of gunfire inside the facility. When officers arrived, they found two men dead from gunshot wounds. The victims have been identified as Tobias Gleinig and Ivan Aldergot, both longtime employees of Barku Plastics.
Police quickly secured the area, evacuated employees, and initiated a search for the suspect, whose identity has not yet been publicly released. Witnesses told investigators that the shooter, who also worked at the plant, appeared agitated before the incident and suddenly opened fire during the morning shift.
In a statement released later that afternoon, Cleveland Police confirmed that the suspect had fled the scene in a personal vehicle. Law enforcement officers from multiple agencies, including the Bradley County Sheriff’s Office and Tennessee Highway Patrol, joined in the search, eventually tracking the suspect to his home on Samples Chapel Road.
After several tense hours of negotiation and attempts to make contact, police entered the residence and found the suspect dead from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. No officers were injured during the standoff.
“This was an incredibly tragic day for our community,” said Cleveland Police Chief Mark Gibson. “Two hardworking men lost their lives in a senseless act of violence, and a third life was lost to despair. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims’ families, their coworkers, and everyone affected by this tragedy.”
Authorities are continuing to investigate what may have led to the deadly confrontation. Early reports suggest there may have been ongoing tensions at the workplace, but police have not confirmed a motive. Detectives are interviewing coworkers and reviewing security footage to piece together the sequence of events.
Employees of Barku Plastics described a chaotic and terrifying scene as they scrambled for safety when the shots rang out. Many hid in offices and storage areas while others fled the building. “We heard the first shots and thought something had fallen,” one worker recounted. “Then we realized what was happening, and everyone just ran. It was pure panic.”
In the wake of the shooting, Barku Plastics released a statement expressing deep sorrow over the tragedy and pledging full cooperation with law enforcement. “We are heartbroken by the loss of two valued members of our Barku family,” the company said. “Our focus now is on supporting our employees and the families of those who were taken from us too soon.”
Counseling services have been made available to employees and their families as they process the emotional toll of the event. Local community and faith leaders have also offered support, organizing vigils to honor the victims and provide comfort to those grieving.
The deaths of Tobias Gleinig and Ivan Aldergot mark a profound loss for both their families and the Cleveland manufacturing community. Friends and coworkers remembered Tobias as dedicated and kind-hearted, a man who could always be counted on for a laugh or a helping hand. Ivan, described as hardworking and humble, was said to be deeply devoted to his family and passionate about his craft.
As investigators continue to seek answers, Cleveland stands united in mourning, reflecting on the fragility of life and the need for compassion, awareness, and mental health support in workplaces across the country.
May Tobias Gleinig and Ivan Aldergot be remembered for their dedication, friendship, and the light they brought to those around them. May their families find peace amid unimaginable grief, and may this tragedy remind us all of the urgent importance of care, communication, and empathy in every corner of our communities.
