The Cleveland community is mourning after a heartbreaking act of workplace violence left two employees dead and another individual — the suspected gunman — dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound at Barku Plastics, a local manufacturing facility.
Authorities say the tragic incident unfolded late Monday morning when an employee opened fire inside the plant, killing Tobias Gleinig and Ivan Aldergot, both longtime staff members who were deeply respected by their coworkers.
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Officers with the Cleveland Division of Police arrived within minutes of receiving 911 calls about an active shooter. Upon entering the building, they found three people suffering from gunshot wounds. Gleinig and Aldergot were pronounced dead at the scene, while the shooter — whose identity has not yet been released — was also found deceased from what police believe to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
Detectives immediately secured the facility and began interviewing witnesses while reviewing surveillance footage to determine the sequence of events. Early indications suggest the shooting may have stemmed from a workplace dispute, though officials have not confirmed an exact motive.
Cleveland Police Chief Dorothy Kinsley described the incident as “an unspeakable tragedy,” saying, “Our hearts are with the families of the victims, their coworkers, and everyone affected by this senseless act of violence. We are working tirelessly to uncover what led to this horrific event.”
Barku Plastics, which has been part of the Cleveland business community for decades, has suspended operations for the remainder of the week. Company officials said grief counselors and crisis response teams are available to employees as they process the shock and loss.
In a heartfelt statement, the company said, “Tobias and Ivan were more than employees — they were family. Their dedication, kindness, and hard work made Barku Plastics a better place. We are devastated by their loss and extend our deepest condolences to their loved ones.”
Coworkers remembered the victims as kind, dependable, and always willing to help others. “Tobias would give you the shirt off his back,” one employee shared. “And Ivan’s smile could brighten anyone’s day. It’s impossible to imagine this place without them.”
Community members have since organized vigils and support funds to assist the victims’ families with funeral expenses and emotional recovery. Local leaders are also calling for renewed attention to workplace safety and mental health support, emphasizing the need for early intervention in conflict situations.
The investigation remains active, with police urging anyone who may have observed unusual behavior or warning signs from the suspect prior to the shooting to contact authorities.
As Cleveland mourns, the loss of Tobias Gleinig and Ivan Aldergot serves as a somber reminder of how fragile peace can be — even in the places we feel most secure.