On December 25, 2023, at approximately 7:55 a.m., Garland police responded to reports of a shooting at the Chandelier Cafe and Lounge, located in the 4400 block of West Walnut Street. Upon arrival, first responders discovered 34-year-old Fuad Baranja lying in the parking lot with an apparent gunshot wound. Baranja was immediately transported to a local hospital for treatment. Despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries on December 26.
Witnesses at the scene recounted that an altercation had occurred between Baranja and another individual, escalating into a physical confrontation that ultimately led to gunfire. As the investigation progressed, Garland police identified 24-year-old Johnny Lewis III as the primary suspect in the shooting. Lewis was subsequently arrested and charged with murder. He is currently being held at the Garland Detention Center without bond.
The Chandelier Cafe and Lounge, an Ethiopian restaurant and hookah lounge, had been operating in Garland since earlier that year. The tragic incident on Christmas morning shocked the local community, highlighting concerns about safety during the holiday season. Garland police have stated that the investigation remains ongoing as they continue to gather information and determine the exact circumstances that led to the fatal shooting.
