A peaceful evening at a suburban Illinois Chick-fil-A turned to tragedy when a violent altercation erupted inside the popular fast-food restaurant, leaving one man dead and another seriously injured.
The incident occurred around 8:30 PM on a Friday evening at the Chick-fil-A location in Willowbrook, approximately 25 miles west of Chicago. According to police reports, 27-year-old Darryl Lee allegedly launched an unprovoked attack on fellow customers within the establishment.
Chaos in the Chicken Restaurant
Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as the attack unfolded in the crowded restaurant. A 42-year-old man suffered fatal stab wounds during the violent confrontation and was pronounced dead at the scene despite emergency response efforts.
A second victim, identified as a 31-year-old man, sustained serious injuries during the incident but is expected to survive after receiving medical treatment at a nearby hospital.
Swift Police Response and Arrest
Willowbrook police officers responded rapidly to emergency calls from distressed customers and staff. Upon arrival, they discovered the chaotic scene and immediately apprehended Darryl Lee without further incident.
"The quick response from both restaurant staff and our officers prevented this situation from escalating further," stated Chief of Police Thomas M. Mazar during a press conference.
Community in Shock
The violent incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, where the Chick-fil-A restaurant is typically known as a family-friendly establishment. Regular customers expressed their disbelief at the tragedy occurring in what many consider a safe neighbourhood gathering spot.
Local authorities have assured residents that this appears to be an isolated incident, with no ongoing threat to public safety. The investigation continues as police work to determine the motive behind the brutal attack.
The Chick-fil-A location remained closed temporarily following the incident as police completed their initial investigation and the restaurant addressed the aftermath of the violence.