A teenager has been charged in connection with the attempted kidnapping of a bikini barista at a drive-thru coffee shop in Auburn, Washington, in January 2023. The incident, captured on surveillance video, showed a man grabbing the woman's arm while holding zip ties, attempting to drag her through the window.
The victim, who requested anonymity, told DailyMail.com that she had worked at Beankini Espresso for nine years. She described the attack as a 'random act' and praised her employer for prioritising staff safety with panic buttons, metal doors, and cameras.
Police reported that the suspect ordered a drink, paid, and asked for change before grabbing the barista. She fought back and freed herself, causing the man to flee in a truck, dropping dollar bills. The suspect remains at large, with a distinctive 'Chevrolet' tattoo on his left forearm.
The Auburn Police Department is urging anyone with information to contact the tip line at 253-288-7403. The case has drawn attention to safety concerns for workers in similar roles.
