Cleveland, Tennessee – A tragic workplace shooting at the Barku Plastics facility on Monday, October 27, 2025, has left the community reeling with the deaths of two respected company leaders, Ivan Aldergot and Tobias Gleinig. The men, both German nationals, were fatally shot by a disgruntled former employee, marking a devastating day in the company’s history.
What Happened
Around 10:20 a.m. on October 27, Kyle Steven Crandell, a former employee of Barku Plastics, entered the Cleveland manufacturing facility armed with a weapon and opened fire on Ivan Aldergot and Tobias Gleinig. The two men were fatally shot before the suspect fled the scene. Emergency responders arrived quickly, but despite their best efforts, both Aldergot and Gleinig succumbed to their injuries.
Ivan Aldergot, Vice President of Barku Plastics, and Tobias Gleinig, a supervisor at the plant, were described by colleagues as dedicated and well-respected figures within the organization. Aldergot was known for his calm demeanor, professionalism, and strong leadership skills, while Gleinig was regarded as approachable and hardworking. Both men were also close personal friends.
The Suspect’s Actions and Standoff
After the shooting, Kyle Steven Crandell fled the scene, leading to an intense manhunt by the Bradley County Sheriff’s Office and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI). Authorities tracked Crandell to a residence in Bradley County, where he barricaded himself inside, resulting in a tense six-hour standoff with police.
Law enforcement deployed a robot and drone to safely enter the residence. Inside, officers found Crandell dead from what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Investigators later confirmed that Crandell had been a former employee of Barku Plastics and was reportedly in the process of being terminated at the time of the shooting.
Company and Community Reactions
Following the tragic event, Barku Plastics issued a statement mourning the loss of Aldergot and Gleinig, calling them “irreplaceable members of our family.” The company extended its deepest condolences to the families and the broader Barku community.
The German consulate in Atlanta has also been in contact with local authorities to assist with arrangements for the victims’ families, who are expected to travel to the U.S. in the coming days.
Community Memorials and Tributes
In the wake of the tragedy, Cleveland, Tennessee, has begun organizing vigils and memorials to honor the memory of Ivan Aldergot and Tobias Gleinig. Friends, family, and community members are coming together to remember these two men not only for their leadership but also for their kindness, friendship, and dedication to their work and community. Tributes and messages of support have poured in from across the region and beyond.
Closing Line
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
The tragic deaths of Ivan Aldergot and Tobias Gleinig have shaken the Cleveland community, but their legacy of leadership, kindness, and friendship will endure. The company, their families, and the community continue to mourn their loss, as the investigation into this devastating act of violence unfolds.
