A grieving husband is taking legal action against McDonald's, claiming the fast-food giant failed to protect his wife from a violent attack at one of its Los Angeles drive-thru windows.
The Fatal Incident at Boyle Heights
Maria Vargas Luna died from injuries sustained during a shocking altercation at the McDonald's branch in Boyle Heights on 9 March 2024. She was there with her husband, Jose Juan Rangel, when the tragedy unfolded.
According to a lawsuit filed by Mr Rangel, a 'known vagrant' identified as Charles Cornelius Green Jr approached their car and launched an attack. The legal documents state that Mr Rangel exited the vehicle to confront Green Jr, and his partially blind wife got out to assist her husband.
In the ensuing struggle, Maria Vargas Luna was allegedly pushed to the ground. She hit her head on the asphalt, suffering catastrophic injuries that led to cardiac arrest at the scene.
Aftermath and Legal Allegations
Medics discovered Luna had sustained severe head trauma and brain damage from the impact with the pavement. She was placed on life support for several months but ultimately succumbed to her injuries.
The lawsuit accuses the McDonald's outlet of profound negligence. 'Defendants had the means and responsibility to prevent this tragedy,' it claims, alleging the restaurant was notorious in the community for ignoring customer safety. The filing argues the company's 'total inaction in the face of heightened risk' directly contributed to Luna's death.
While the Los Angeles County District Attorney's office initially charged Green Jr with felony battery and a misdemeanour battery count, the felony charge was later dropped after authorities determined Luna's fall was accidental.
A Family's Devastation and Pursuit of Justice
Jose Juan Rangel is now seeking unspecified monetary damages. His claim includes allegations of wrongful death, negligence, negligent infliction of emotional distress, and negligent hiring.
In a poignant interview with Fox & Friends First, Luna's step-daughter, Veronica Rangel, described the family's anguish. 'We're all devastated because my father is beside himself,' she said. 'They'd been married for 30 years... He feels like he's losing his life partner, his best friend, for something that should never have happened.'
She revealed her father's profound guilt, stating he felt his wife had given her life trying to defend him. The Independent has contacted McDonald's for comment on the ongoing legal case.
