Fayetteville, NC — The Fayetteville Police Department has confirmed that the individual responsible for the fatal shooting of two brothers at Mac’s Speed Shop earlier this month is an active-duty U.S. Army soldier. The suspect’s name has not been publicly released.
The deadly incident occurred at the Mac’s Speed Shop location on McPherson Church Road and quickly drew widespread public attention. The victims were identified as brothers Daniel and Timothy Nakamoto, who both died following a confrontation inside the restaurant.
Police officials stated that the shooter did not know the Nakamoto brothers prior to the incident. According to reporting by WTVD, Fayetteville Assistant Police Chief Todd Joyce said the conflict began over a misunderstanding involving apparel. What started as a verbal exchange reportedly escalated into a physical altercation, which then led to shots being fired.
Authorities said the soldier was assaulted during the encounter and allegedly sustained a concussion. Police also confirmed that the individual called 911 while leaving the restaurant, which led officers to interview the soldier as a person of interest later that same night. Investigators subsequently reviewed surveillance footage and other evidence and determined that the individual acted in lawful self-defense, resulting in no criminal charges related to the deaths.
Due to the suspect’s military status, the case has been turned over to the Army Criminal Investigation Division for further review. With the matter now under military jurisdiction, officials indicated that additional public updates may be limited.
The shooting sparked significant discussion across the city, in part because of the public setting and the initial lack of information regarding the shooter. Funeral services for the Nakamoto brothers were held on January 17, and the determination clearing the shooter of criminal responsibility was announced on January 18.
Authorities have stated they will release additional information only if it becomes publicly available through official channels.
