A tragic incident unfolded at a Wendy’s restaurant in Memphis, Tennessee, on Monday, resulting in the death of a man after an altercation with the fast-food chain’s manager.
Darelle Bowers, 37, a manager at the Wendy’s location, has been charged with first-degree murder and is being held without bond at the Shelby County Jail.
The Fight Over an Employee
The violent confrontation began over a dispute regarding an employee wanting to leave her shift early. According to the Memphis Police Department, the employee called Stephen Shepard, a man she knew, to pick her up after Bowers allegedly threatened to slap her. This prompted Shepard’s arrival at the Wendy’s restaurant at 7928 Winchester Road.
An argument soon escalated between Shepard and Bowers, leading to a physical fight. Surveillance video posted on social media captured the confrontation. The footage shows Shepard throwing a punch at Bowers, who was wearing his Wendy’s uniform.
Moments later, Bowers pulled out a gun and shot Shepard in the stomach, a fatal wound that later led to his death at the hospital.
The Shocking Aftermath
The situation took a shocking turn after the shooting. As Shepard lay dying from his injuries in the parking lot, Bowers was seen walking over to the victim and slapping him in the face. Witnesses confirmed this disturbing act, with one bystander explaining that Bowers had a gun in his hand before the fight even began.
A witness also recalled the moment of the shooting, saying that when Shepard was first hit, he screamed, but after a while, he stopped moving. The victim was reportedly unarmed during the confrontation.
Bowers’ Admission and Arrest
Bowers reportedly knew Shepard, and police say he did not resist arrest. After being apprehended, Bowers admitted to firing the shot that killed Shepard. He has been charged with first-degree murder and is scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday.
Wendy’s Response
In response to the incident, a spokesperson for Wendy’s of Tennessee stated that the company enforces strict safety protocols at its locations, including de-escalation training for employees.
The company emphasized its zero-tolerance policy on weapons at its restaurants, a stance that contrasts sharply with the tragic events that unfolded in Memphis.
The fatal altercation between Darelle Bowers and Stephen Shepard has left the community shocked and grieving. As the legal process continues, the incident raises important questions about workplace violence, the use of firearms, and the responsibilities of employers in maintaining safety in their establishments.
