Working in retail and food service has its challenges, but lately, the risks have escalated with a series of attacks on employees across the country. Here’s a look at some of the recent incidents highlighting the dangers faced by these workers.
A Dollar Store Drama in Wappingers Falls
In Wappingers Falls, NY, a Dollar General employee found themselves in a terrifying situation during an attempted robbery. According to Dutchess County law enforcement, two female suspects attacked the store associate before fleeing in a white Nissan sedan. The quick response from the police ensured that the situation didn’t escalate further, but the incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks retail workers face.
Pop-Tart Assault in Austin, Texas
Over in Austin, Texas, things took a bizarre turn when a Walgreens employee was attacked with Pop-Tarts. Jonathan Steele, 33, is now facing second-degree felony robbery charges after an argument in the parking lot escalated. Steele, accused of shoplifting, threw the breakfast pastries at the employee, causing minor injuries. He remains free on a $1,500 bond.
A Close Call in Fresno
In Fresno, California, a Mattress Firm employee narrowly escaped a more severe assault. On April 10, Xiang Zhao, 34, entered the store and attacked the lone employee, attempting to sexually assault her. Thanks to her quick thinking, she fended off Zhao and called the police. While she suffered minor physical injuries, the emotional scars are likely to linger. Fresno Police apprehended Zhao based on the victim’s description, and it appears he has no prior criminal history.
A Hero in Washington Heights
In New York City’s Washington Heights, a deli worker, Jose Navarro, became a hero when he stepped in to protect a 71-year-old friend from an unprovoked attack. The assailant, armed with a box cutter, managed to cut the older man’s neck and then turned his attention to Navarro. Despite suffering cuts on his arm, Navarro’s quick actions helped to mitigate the situation. Both victims refused medical treatment, and the assailant fled on foot.
Beer Bottle Attack in Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh saw its own violent incident on April 8 when Owen Peiffer, 23, attacked a Tequila Cowboy employee with an empty beer bottle. The barback, simply doing his job, bumped into Peiffer, sparking an argument. Things escalated, and Peiffer smashed a beer bottle over the employee’s head. Quick-thinking employees pinned Peiffer down until police arrived, with an off-duty officer detaining him. Peiffer now faces felony charges of aggravated assault and will have his initial court hearing on April 18.
These incidents highlight the growing dangers faced by retail and food service workers. Employers must ensure safer working environments, and workers should know their rights and legal options when faced with such threats. If you’ve been injured on the job, whether through an attack or an accident, seeking professional legal guidance can make all the difference.
For more information on workers’ rights and to seek legal assistance for work-related injuries, contact our experienced team at Abbott, Clay & Bedoy, LLC. We are dedicated to defending the rights of injured Texas workers. Call us at 713-223-1234 today.