A quick stop for lunch turned into a terrifying scene at a Florida fast-food spot after a dispute over a drink allegedly ended in gunfire.
Police say three women were inside a Taco Bell in West Palm Beach when things took a shocking turn around noon Monday. According to investigators, the women had asked for a water cup—but one of them allegedly filled it with soda instead, sparking a heated argument with an employee.
That employee, identified as 20-year-old D’Mari Jy’Quan Patterson, is now accused of pulling out a gun as tensions escalated.
Witness video captured the confrontation as voices rose inside the restaurant. Moments later, police say the sound of a gun being racked could be heard—followed by a shot fired in the dining area.
The chaos unfolded quickly.
One woman was hit and collapsed to the floor, while another suffered a graze wound. A third woman ran out of the restaurant—but investigators say Patterson followed her outside and fired again. That shot missed, but shattered a window near the entrance.
Despite the violence, all three women managed to get themselves to a hospital. Authorities say two were treated for minor injuries and released, while the third was not physically injured.
After the shooting, Patterson called 911 and claimed a customer had jumped behind the counter. But according to police, he later admitted to firing the weapon and said he placed it in the management office before officers arrived.
Investigators also say Patterson told them he believed the women were armed—but no weapons were found. Surveillance footage and witness accounts reportedly do not support a self-defense claim, with police noting the women appeared to be trying to leave when additional shots were fired.
One customer who heard about the incident summed up the shock felt by many: “It doesn’t surprise me… the world we live in today, it makes sense.”
Patterson was arrested and is now facing three counts of aggravated assault with a firearm. Jail records show he is being held on $25,000 bond for each charge as the case moves forward.
The State Attorney’s Office is currently reviewing the incident.