EASTPOINTE, MICHIGAN — A 26-year-old McDonald’s employee has been arrested after allegedly stabbing her manager to death following a verbal dispute at the restaurant. The tragic incident occurred early Thursday morning at a McDonald’s located in the 17000 block of 9 Mile Road.
The Dispute and the Fatal Stabbing
According to the Eastpointe Police Department, the victim, Jennifer “Jamma” Harris, 39, was a long-time employee of the McDonald’s and had worked there for 15 years.
Harris, a mother of six, had reportedly sent the suspect home early after a disagreement. However, the situation escalated when the employee returned to the restaurant shortly after, armed with a knife.
The employee stabbled Harris multiple times. A customer at the drive-thru witnessed the attack and, in an attempt to intervene, fired a shot into the air.
Fortunately, no one was struck by the bullet. The suspect, identified by authorities, attempted to flee the scene but was detained by the customer who had fired the shot. Police arrived shortly after and arrested the suspect.
Victim’s Family Speaks Out
Harris’s family expressed their heartbreak following the tragic incident. Her oldest daughter, Antonia Griffin, told Detroit’s WXYZ:
“She was the best mom anybody could ever ask for. My mama, she woke up every day and went to work for us, for us. My mama died trying to take care of us.”
Her family also mentioned that before the stabbing, Harris and the suspect had been friends. The shock and devastation from the family were palpable, as they described the betrayal and loss they felt after the violent attack.
Police Investigation and Community Reaction
Authorities rushed Harris to a local hospital, but she tragically succumbed to her wounds and was pronounced dead shortly after. Local McDonald’s owner Yusef Alcodray issued a statement expressing his sadness over the tragedy, stating:
“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 serious. The restaurant will remain closed until further notice.”
The suspect’s identity has not yet been released by the police, and they are urging anyone with information to come forward and contact Eastpointe Detective Showers at 586-445-9415. Authorities have not yet provided further details about the investigation.
