Chipotle Worker Assaulted by Customers Over Extra Chicken Charge: Suspects Sought
ICARO Media Group
Police are on the lookout for a man and woman accused of violently attacking a Chipotle worker in Charlotte, North Carolina, after a dispute over an extra chicken charge. The incident took place at a Chipotle restaurant in Indian Land on December 10.
The suspects have been identified as Jamel Williams, 36, and Kayla Pyle, 34. According to authorities, the altercation began when Pyle requested extra protein for her order and was informed by the 20-year-old Chipotle worker that it would come at an additional cost. This led to a heated argument between the parties involved.
The confrontation escalated to such an extent that the Chipotle worker decided to end her shift early and leave the premises around 9 p.m. The exact details of the conversation that took place remain unknown.
As the worker made her way towards the exit on one side of the dining room, Williams, described as 6-feet 3 inches tall and weighing 300 pounds, entered from the opposite side. Approaching the victim, he allegedly pushed her to the floor and proceeded to physically assault her, including pulling her hair and jerking her around.
Pyle subsequently joined in the attack, striking the victim as well. Disturbing video footage of the incident, which was shared online, shows the defenseless Chipotle worker falling to the ground and curling up to protect herself. Shocked customers can be heard pleading with the assailants to stop. At one point, Williams, identifiable by his red pants, can be seen launching a powerful uppercut at the victim.
Authorities were alerted to the scene, but by the time officers arrived, Williams and Pyle had already fled in a Dodge Charger. The Lancaster County Sheriff's Office subsequently issued arrest warrants for Williams on charges of assault and battery in the first degree, and for Pyle on charges of assault and battery in the second degree.
Thanks to assistance from the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department, law enforcement was able to identify the suspects. Witnesses provided a description of the getaway vehicle, including the tag number, and surveillance footage from the restaurant as well as video captured by a witness were obtained to aid in the investigation.
Sheriff Barry Faile condemned the assault as entirely unjustified, expressing his hope for the victim's recovery from her injuries. Authorities are urging anyone with information on the whereabouts of Jamel Williams and Kayla Pyle to come forward and assist in their apprehension.
The incident has sparked outrage over the escalating violence in disputes over minor issues, serving as a reminder of the need for greater empathy and peaceful resolution.