An argument over taking out the garbage ends in shooting inside a McDonald in Illinois
A manager and the mother of a teenage employee face felony charges after an altercation escalated to gun violence in Belleville
A workplace argument between a manager and a teenage employee at a McDonald's ended in a violent shooting inside the restaurant, according to the Belleville Police Department in Illinois. Two women are now facing felony charges following the incident on July 16 in the afternoon.
The altercation began around 4:45 p.m. when Kathy Bledsoe, 44, the restaurant's shift manager, asked a teenage employee to take out the trash. The girl refused, prompting Bledsoe to tell her to clock out of work that day, according to the police report.
The teenager then contacted her mother, Tynika McKinzie, 35, who arrived at the scene shortly afterward with another girl. What ensued was a verbal argument that quickly escalated.
According to police, McKinzie went behind the restaurant's counter, violating the restaurant's restricted area, and went to the manager's office. There, he allegedly assaulted Bledsoe, hitting her in the head and face.
During the struggle, Bledsoe pulled out a handgun and fired one shot, striking McKinzie in the leg.
Criminal Charges and Aftermath
Authorities filed charges of aggravated unlawful use of a weapon against Kathy Bledsoe, while Tynika McKinzie was charged with aggravated assault and mob action.
McKinzie was transported by emergency services to a medical center for treatment of the gunshot wound. Bledsoe was arrested at the scene by police.
The Belleville Police Department called the incident unnecessary and condemned the speed with which it escalated into violence. It is unfortunate that this incident occurred. It seems that people are quick to resort to violence to resolve disputes without considering the impact their actions have on the community, the department said in a Facebook post.
They also stressed that they will continue working with the community to ensure that those who resolve disputes through violence are held accountable.
The operator and owner of the Mc Donald™s restaurant where the incident took place issued a statement to Fox News Digital, expressing their dismay: We are shocked and saddened by the attack. Our top priority is always the safety and well-being of our employees. At this time, we are focused on providing support to our restaurant staff and will continue to cooperate with authorities in their investigation.