Jennifer Harris, a mother of six and McDonald’s manager, lost her life after a violent altercation at her workplace in Eastpointe, Michigan. The tragedy unfolded after an argument with an employee, who allegedly returned to the restaurant wearing a mask before stabbing Harris. Now, her family, friends, and colleagues are trying to come to terms with the tragedy. Here’s the lowdown.
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A devastating attack at the Eastpointe McDonald’s
At approximately 8 a.m. at the Eastpointe McDonald’s, Harris, a 15-year veteran of the company, got into a heated argument with a coworker, according to WXYZ . After sending the employee home in a scuffle, Harris likely thought the situation was resolved. However, within minutes, the employee returned, his face allegedly hidden by a mask, as he launched a brutal attack. According to a witness who spoke to FOX2 Detroit , “She started stabbing her, and I ran for help… I tried to stop her—it wasn’t stopping her. She stabbed her everywhere.”
In the midst of the fight between employees, a drive-through customer intervened, firing a warning shot into the air in an attempt to stop the attack. The suspect stopped briefly before attempting to flee, but was detained by the customer, who held her at gunpoint until police arrived. When officers arrived, they found Harris suffering from multiple stab wounds. The mother of six was rushed to a nearby hospital but was pronounced dead shortly afterward. Authorities have not yet released the suspect’s identity, but according to WXYZ , the suspect is 26 years old.
Family and colleagues mourn Jennifer’s death
Harris was more than just a McDonald’s manager. She was the driving force behind her six children and a beloved figure at her workplace. Her eldest daughter, Antonia Griffin, spoke to the aforementioned publication about her mother’s devotion to her family.
“She was the best mother anyone could ask for. My mother – she woke up every day and went to work for us. My mother died trying to take care of us.”
Griffin is heartbroken as he tries to come to terms with the devastating loss of his parents in a shocking stabbing:
“She was so good to everyone; a hard-working woman. My mother was good to her. We knew the lady and everything. I don’t understand why she had to kill her.”
According to CBS News , his McDonald’s co-worker Kelly McAlpine added: “I’m shocked. I couldn’t believe it. I was devastated… I never would have thought something like this would happen there.”
McDonald’s owner responds to tragedy
Meanwhile, Yusef Alcodray, the owner of the Eastpointe McDonald’s, released a statement addressing the heartbreaking loss, per CBS News . “We are devastated by this tragedy and send our deepest condolences to the victim’s family,” he said. He also made it clear that “Violence has no place in our restaurants” and reiterated his commitment to prioritizing the safety of employees and customers. The restaurant is closed until further notice and is fully cooperating with police as they investigate the incident.
The full statement read:
“We are deeply saddened by this tragic incident, and our hearts go out to the victim’s family and loved ones. Violence of any kind is unacceptable in my restaurants, and we are taking this matter extremely seriously because the safety and well-being of our employees and customers are paramount.”
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What do you think colleagues?
