Tyler bar shooting: One dead, rival gangs suspected

**Fatal Shooting at Tyler Bar Leaves One Dead, Four Injured; Rival Gangs Suspected**

Tyler, TX – One man is dead and four others were injured following a chaotic shooting incident early Sunday morning, December 28th, at The Garage Bar and Grill in Tyler, an event Sheriff Larry Smith has attributed to rival gang activity.

Nicholas Williams, 21, of Tyler, was pronounced dead at the scene, located on State Highway 64 East in Smith County. Of the four individuals wounded, one remains in critical condition, while the other three are reported to be stable.

Sheriff Smith characterized the scene as "total mayhem," with numerous shots fired, and people screaming and running in the immediate aftermath. Deputies arrived within minutes of the initial call but found Williams already deceased.

As of Monday, December 29th, authorities have not made any arrests in connection with the shooting. However, Sheriff Smith stated investigators are actively identifying suspects and working to track them down. The investigation is a collaborative effort involving the Smith County Sheriff's Office, the Texas Rangers, the District Attorney's office, and federal partners.

The Sheriff highlighted the dangers posed by gang violence to the broader community. Investigators are appealing to the public for any information regarding the incident and urge anyone who witnessed the events to contact the Smith County Sheriff's Office at 903-566-6600.