Oklahoma City Woman Files Lawsuit Against Sonic Drive-In Following Violent Stabbing
An Oklahoma City woman has initiated legal action against Sonic Drive-In, asserting that a brutal stabbing incident in a restaurant parking lot was exacerbated by insufficient security measures and malfunctioning surveillance equipment. The lawsuit, lodged in Oklahoma County District Court, details a harrowing attack that occurred late on December 16, leaving the victim with severe injuries and substantial financial burdens.
Details of the Alleged Attack and Injuries
Linda Hollrah, returning home from a concert, placed a pickup order at the Sonic location near Northeast 23rd Street and Santa Fe Avenue. Upon arrival, employees directed her to wait in a drive-in stall for her food. While waiting, a masked assailant approached her vehicle and stabbed her repeatedly in the arm, chest, liver, and knee without uttering a word before fleeing the scene.
Hollrah survived the assault but required urgent surgical intervention, resulting in approximately $250,000 in hospital bills. Additional costly leg surgery is anticipated as part of her ongoing recovery, which has also rendered her unable to work temporarily.
Legal Claims and Allegations of Negligence
The lawsuit accuses Sonic Industries LLC of negligence, citing a failure to implement basic security protocols and the presence of non-operational surveillance cameras at the time of the attack. Hollrah's attorney, Tom Cummings, emphasized that no warnings were provided to customers regarding safety measures, such as keeping car doors locked or windows raised.
Hollrah is seeking damages exceeding $10,000 to cover medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. The complaint further alleges that Sonic was aware of previous assaults against patrons in the area and should have recognized the potential dangers to customers.
Police Investigation and Suspect Description
Oklahoma City police have released video footage and still images of a man believed to be the suspect. He is described as a clean-shaven Black male, aged between 35 and 45, wearing a multicolored striped hoodie and a beanie with braids tucked underneath. No arrests have been made, and authorities continue to seek public assistance in identifying the individual.
Investigators urge anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers at 405-235-7300 or visit okccrimetips.com, referencing case number #25-92627. A cash reward may be available for tips leading to an arrest.
Broader Implications for Customer Safety
This case highlights ongoing concerns about security in retail and dining environments, particularly in parking areas where customers may be vulnerable. The lawsuit underscores the legal responsibilities of businesses to protect patrons from foreseeable harms, especially in locations with a history of criminal activity.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the outcome could set a precedent for how similar incidents are handled in the future, potentially influencing security standards across the industry.
