A tragic incident at a 7-Eleven store in Los Angeles has left Jessica McLaughlin, a 24-year-old employee, brain-dead after a violent altercation with her manager.
The family of McLaughlin has announced that they will be taking her off life support, as her brain stopped functioning after she was deprived of oxygen during the attack.
The Attack
According to McLaughlin’s brother, Sean McLaughlin, Jessica went to work on June 24, expecting a normal day. However, things took a violent turn when her manager allegedly threw a bottle at her before pinning her to the ground and sitting on top of her, preventing her from breathing.
Some coworkers attempted to intervene and stop the attack but were reportedly attacked themselves. When Jessica managed to break free, she collapsed and was unconscious. Paramedics arrived shortly after and rushed her to the hospital, but doctors found no brain activity in the days following the incident.
Suspect’s Actions After the Attack
According to Sean McLaughlin, after the attack, the manager ran to the back room to try and delete the security footage before fleeing the scene on her bike.
McLaughlin emphasized that Jessica was an innocent victim, noting that she had done nothing wrong and the attack was completely unprovoked.
Hospitalization and Family’s Heartbreaking Decision
Jessica was placed on life support, but after several days of no brain activity, her family made the heart-wrenching decision to take her off life support. The family has confirmed that they will plan her funeral as they prepare to say their final goodbyes.
In an emotional tribute posted to GoFundMe, Sean McLaughlin described his sister as more than just a sibling. He wrote, “Jessica was always there—for me, for our family, and honestly, for anyone who needed her. She had a way of making people feel safe, accepted, and loved. She truly saw the good in everyone.”
The Investigation and 7-Eleven’s Response
The Los Angeles Police Department responded to the scene of the attack at the 7-Eleven located near Paramount Pictures studios. Police found McLaughlin unconscious at the store, but by the time officers arrived, the manager had already fled.
The police investigation is still ongoing, and as of now, no arrests have been made in the case.
7-Eleven issued a statement in response to the incident, confirming that the manager involved in the attack had been fired. The company stated, “Our hearts are with those impacted during this difficult time,” and assured that they are cooperating fully with law enforcement in the investigation.
Final Thoughts and Community Reaction
The devastating incident has left the community in shock, with many expressing grief over the senseless loss of a young woman who was loved by so many. Jessica McLaughlin’s family and friends have honored her memory, describing her as someone who always lifted others up and had a beautiful soul.
This tragic case highlights the dangers of workplace violence and the profound impact it has on families and communities. As the investigation continues, the family is left to mourn the loss of a daughter, sister, and friend, whose life was tragically taken far too soon.
