A 25-year-old employee at a Wingstop in Memphis, Tennessee, is facing serious charges after allegedly throwing hot cooking oil onto two customers during an argument.
The incident occurred on July 22, 2024, at a Wingstop located on Winchester Road, leading to aggravated assault charges against the employee, Johnisa Herring.
The Attack and Its Aftermath
According to police reports, two women entered the Wingstop to pick up an order, and during their visit, they became involved in a disagreement with Herring. As the argument escalated, Herring went into the kitchen, filled a bowl with hot cooking oil, and returned to throw it onto the customers.
One of the women was struck in the face and upper torso with the hot oil, resulting in second-degree burns on 18.5% of her body. She was immediately taken to a local hospital for treatment. The other woman was burned on her right shoulder but did not suffer as severe injuries.
Investigation and Charges
The woman with the more serious injuries later identified Herring as the person who threw the oil. The exact reason for the argument between the women and Herring has not been revealed. Herring was arrested on Monday and charged with aggravated assault, with her bond set at $7,500.
She was initially placed in the Shelby County Jail, but as of Saturday, she was no longer listed in the inmate roster, suggesting she has been released.
Herring is scheduled for her next court appearance on August 25, 2024.
The Role of Wingstop
Wingstop, the Texas-based restaurant chain known for its chicken wings, has not publicly commented on the incident. The company operates numerous locations across the United States and is popular for its variety of wing flavors and casual dining atmosphere.
This shocking incident highlights the potential dangers of workplace conflicts escalating into violent actions. The victim’s severe injuries and the criminal charges against Herring underscore the importance of maintaining a safe environment for both customers and employees in public spaces.
