UNION COUNTY, N.C. — Heartbreak and disbelief ripple through Union County as the community mourns the devastating loss of Dan’treveion “Tre” Hobbs, a beloved young man whose life was tragically cut short in a deadly shooting at the Taco Bell restaurant in Indian Trail on Monday night. What began as an ordinary shift turned into an unimaginable tragedy that has left family, friends, and coworkers shattered.
According to the Union County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to reports of gunfire around 8:45 p.m. at the Taco Bell where Tre worked. Upon arrival, officers found Tre suffering from multiple gunshot wounds inside the restaurant. Despite the swift efforts of first responders, he was tragically pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators believe the shooting was targeted, not random, and detectives are actively pursuing leads and reviewing surveillance footage to identify those responsible.
In the wake of the tragedy, Tre’s mother bravely identified her son, sharing her grief publicly. “My baby didn’t deserve this,” she wrote — words that have since been echoed by hundreds who knew and loved him. Messages of sorrow, support, and remembrance have poured in from all corners of the community, painting a portrait of a young man who was kind, genuine, and full of life.
Those who worked alongside Tre describe him as the heartbeat of the restaurant — someone who could lift spirits with just a smile or a joke. “He was more than a coworker — he was family,” said one colleague tearfully. “He worked hard, treated everyone with respect, and always showed up with a good attitude. He didn’t deserve this.”
By the next evening, the Taco Bell parking lot had transformed into a memorial site — candles flickered in the autumn breeze as flowers, photos, and handwritten notes surrounded the entrance. Friends and family gathered, holding one another close as they shared memories of Tre’s laughter, his dreams, and his unwavering kindness.
The Union County Sheriff’s Office continues to urge anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. Even the smallest detail, officials say, could help bring justice to Tre’s grieving family and community.
As Union County comes to terms with this senseless act of violence, residents are reminded of the preciousness of life — and of the deep wound left by such loss.
Tre Hobbs will be remembered not for the tragedy that ended his life, but for the joy, light, and compassion he brought to those around him. His infectious laughter, his caring nature, and his bright spirit touched countless lives.
Though gone far too soon, Tre’s legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Rest in peace, Dan’treveion “Tre” Hobbs.
Your light will forever shine, your laughter will forever echo, and your love will never fade. 🕊️