In a shocking incident that unfolded at City Winery in Chicago's West Loop, a restaurant worker has been charged with first-degree murder after allegedly fatally stabbing his coworker during an unprovoked attack. The accused, Clarence Johnson, a 41-year-old dishwasher, appeared in court on Friday, where a judge ordered him to remain in jail.

According to Cook County Assistant State's Attorney Anne McCord, the incident took place on Wednesday when Johnson allegedly used a pocket knife to repeatedly stab his coworker, Francois Swain, 47. The attack was witnessed by the restaurant manager, a bartender, and two customers, leaving them horrified.

McCord revealed that moments before the assault, Johnson had laid face down on the restaurant floor, uttering statements praising Jesus. He then abruptly got up, pushed Swain against the bar, and proceeded to stab him multiple times. The violence escalated as Johnson chased Swain into the main seating area, where two bar patrons witnessed the brutal attack unfold.

"The bartender ran from the bar and provided aid to the victim," said McCord. "The bartender also observed the defendant try to render aid to the victim as well." Swain sustained critical injuries and was immediately given medical assistance, but tragically succumbed to his wounds at a nearby hospital.

During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Johnson had suffered four stab wounds in his chest, shoulder, and back. He received medical treatment but did not survive. Before being read his Miranda rights, Johnson allegedly made spontaneous statements expressing remorse for his actions.

Johnson's girlfriend spoke anonymously to CBS 2, disclosing that he had been diagnosed with schizophrenia in the past but wasn't taking medication. She noticed changes in his behavior over the past week, raising concerns about his mental well-being.

Further investigation uncovered Johnson's extensive criminal history, which included 12 prior felony convictions primarily related to drug possession. He had recently completed probation for a 2020 drug possession charge and had served a six-year sentence for possession of a firearm as a gang member.

In response to the tragic loss of their loved one, Swain's family called for justice. Swain's mother, Karen Coleman, described her son as a good person with a great sense of humor. Swain's sister, Ericka Swain-Ferrell, expressed shock over the incident, emphasizing that her brother was not a confrontational individual.

The grief-stricken family requested that Johnson be held accountable for his actions, stating that Swain did not deserve to lose his life in this manner. They highlighted the importance of workplace safety, particularly for those who rely on public transportation, like Swain, who commuted from south suburban Harvey to the West Loop.

As the investigation continues, Johnson has been ordered by the judge to have no contact with any witnesses involved in the case. The loss of Swain, a loving father and beloved member of his tight-knit family, has left a void that cannot be filled.

The trial ahead will seek to uncover the events leading up to the tragic incident and provide answers to the grieving family's questions: What happened? What led to Swain's untimely death? The family hopes that the legal process will result in justice being served and provide a measure of closure for their unimaginable loss.