SAGINAW, MI – A Michigan woman is facing felonious assault charges after allegedly throwing hot coffee at a McDonald’s manager who she accused of lying about a delayed online order.
Casharra Brown, 48, is wanted by the Buena Vista Police Department following the Tuesday morning incident at a Saginaw McDonald’s restaurant. According to authorities, Brown became upset after waiting more than an hour for an online order and demanded an immediate refund.
Security footage released by police shows Brown screaming at the manager and repeatedly calling him a “liar” when he explained that the refund process would take 48 hours to complete. The video captures Brown removing the lid from a large cup of hot coffee, reaching over the service barrier, and flinging the steaming beverage at the worker’s back.
The manager sustained minor injuries and screamed in pain as Brown fled the restaurant. He was treated at the scene for burns caused by the hot liquid.
Detective Russ Pahssen of the Buena Vista Police Department said the department’s decision to release the surveillance video on social media led to Brown’s rapid identification. “Within about two minutes, we had her identified,” Pahssen told reporters, noting they received approximately 100 tips from the public.
A warrant for Brown’s arrest has been issued, and the Saginaw County Prosecutor’s Office has been asked to file felonious assault charges. Brown remains at large, and police are asking anyone with information about her whereabouts to contact the department.
Felonious assault in Michigan carries a maximum sentence of four years in prison and a $2,000 fine. The charge applies when someone assaults another person with intent to do great bodily harm or uses a dangerous weapon.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions between customers and fast-food workers, particularly regarding mobile ordering systems that can lead to delays and miscommunication. McDonald’s and other major chains have increasingly relied on app-based ordering to streamline service, but technical glitches and timing issues have sometimes resulted in customer frustration.
The restaurant manager did not require hospitalization but was left shaken by the assault. McDonald’s corporate office has not issued a statement about the incident or whether additional security measures will be implemented at the location.
Workplace violence against retail and food service workers has become an increasing concern for employers and law enforcement. The National Retail Federation has reported a rise in aggressive customer behavior since the COVID-19 pandemic, with workers facing verbal abuse, threats, and physical attacks over issues ranging from mask policies to order mistakes.
Police urge anyone who recognizes Brown or knows her location to call the Buena Vista Police Department. Authorities warn the public not to approach her directly but to report sightings to law enforcement.
