On May 25 the Wendy’s restaurant in Flushing, Queens was struck with a senseless tragedy as two armed gunmen shot seven employees. Five were killed and two are hospitalized.

“We are in shock,” said Ed Choe, senior vice president of operations for Wendy’s. “Our deepest sympathies are extended to the families of the victims. These employees are part of our family too,and we’re deeply hurting.” “This tragic event has deeply saddened members of the Wendy’s family nationwide,” said Jack Schuessler, president and CEO, Wendy’s International.”We are doing everything we can to help the victims’ families and our employees cope with this horrible tragedy.” Choe said the company has closed the restaurant and is cooperating fully with the police investigation.

Wendy’s is offering a $50,000 reward for information leading up to the arrest and conviction of the gunmen. In addition, the company will provide assistance for burial services for the deceased and has made crisis counselors available to help the families of the victims and the other store employees.