We’ve talked before about the increase in violent and often fatal attacks in workplaces across the country. Sometimes they’re by customers or people who have no connection to the business or anyone who works there. Often, they involve disgruntled or mentally unstable current or former employees. They may be perpetrated by spouses or significant others of employees who follow them to work to attack them, sometimes making others their victims as well.
Police say that a man who had recently been fired from a Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant in Valparaiso, Indiana, returned later the same day, August 21, with a knife. According to a Chicago TV news reporter, the 26-year-old man was terminated when he reported to work earlier in the day.
According to police, the man attempted to stab one of the managers with a knife. Other employees managed to prevent that stabbing and subdue him. However, during the scuffle, he stabbed another employee in the arm and hand. They say he then slashed the tires of the manager’s car as he left on foot.
Police apprehended him inside a McDonald’s down the street from the KFC and jailed him. He was charged with aggravated battery, intimidation with a deadly weapon and criminal mischief. He’s also facing charges for possession of drug paraphernalia.
The company said in a statement that “the employee who was injured was treated and released.” The restaurant closed for the remainder of the day.
Sadly, workplace violence can strike anywhere at any time. Many Illinois workplaces have drills to help employees prepare for the possibility, just as they have fire and possibly tornado drills. However, employees can be largely helpless, particularly if the attacker has a high-capacity weapon.
If you’ve been injured in an incident of workplace violence or a loved one has been killed, it’s essential to ensure that you know what options you have for compensation to help you and your family. It’s wise to seek advice from an experienced attorney before you sign any agreements with the employer or any workers’ compensation providers.
