Ivan Aldergot and Tobias Gleinig Death – A tragic workplace shooting at the Barku Plastics facility in Cleveland, Tennessee, on Monday, October 27, 2025, claimed the lives of two company leaders — Ivan Aldergot and Tobias Gleinig. Both men, German nationals and respected figures within the organization, were fatally shot by a disgruntled former employee, marking one of the darkest days in the company’s history.
The shooting unfolded around 10:20 a.m. at the Barku Plastics plant, a well-established manufacturing site known for producing high-quality plastic components. According to law enforcement reports, the suspect, identified as Kyle Steven Crandell, entered the facility armed and opened fire on Aldergot and Gleinig before fleeing the scene. Emergency responders arrived quickly, but both victims succumbed to their injuries despite medical efforts.
Ivan Aldergot, who served as Vice President of Barku Plastics, was widely admired for his leadership, professionalism, and commitment to fostering a positive workplace culture. Known for his calm demeanor and dedication, Aldergot played a key role in the company’s operations and international partnerships.
Tobias Gleinig, a supervisor at the plant, was described by colleagues as hardworking, approachable, and deeply respected by his team. Together, Aldergot and Gleinig shared not only a professional bond but also a close personal friendship. A GoFundMe page organized in their memory described them as “generous, joyful people whose warmth touched everyone they met.”
After the shooting, Crandell fled the scene, prompting an intense manhunt led by the Bradley County Sheriff’s Office and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI). Authorities located his vehicle at a residence in Bradley County, where he had barricaded himself inside, resulting in a tense six-hour standoff with police.
Law enforcement used a robot and drone to safely enter the residence. Inside, officers discovered 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.
Local officials and company representatives have since expressed deep sorrow over the loss. In a statement, Barku Plastics called Aldergot and Gleinig “irreplaceable members of our family” and extended condolences to their loved ones and the broader Barku community.
The German consulate in Atlanta has also been in contact with authorities to assist in arrangements for the victims’ families, who are expected to travel to the U.S. in the coming days.
As Cleveland mourns this senseless act of violence, community members have begun organizing vigils to honor the memory of Ivan Aldergot and Tobias Gleinig — two men remembered for their leadership, friendship, and kindness that transcended borders.