A workplace altercation at Republic Services took a violent turn Monday morning when an employee opened fire, critically injuring a coworker, according to police reports.
At approximately 6:10 a.m., officers responded to reports of a shooting at the Republic Services recycling center.
Upon arrival, they discovered that a verbal dispute between two employees had escalated into physical violence.
According to police, 52-year-old Shannon Lynn Bicking was physically assaulted by a coworker.
Her husband, 53-year-old Ethan Temple Bicking, intervened in an attempt to protect her.
However, the suspect produced a firearm and shot Mr. Bicking before fleeing the scene.
Emergency responders transported both victims to the hospital. Ms. Bicking sustained injuries from the assault and is currently in stable condition, while Mr. Bicking remains in critical but stable condition as a result of the gunshot wound.
Authorities quickly identified and apprehended the suspect, though their identity has not yet been publicly released due to the ongoing investigation.
The Winston-Salem Police Department’s Violent Firearms Investigation Team (VFIT) has taken the lead in the case.
Officials urge anyone with additional information to contact the Winston-Salem Police Department or Crime Stoppers.