St. Louis County, Missouri – A teenage McDonald’s worker is fighting to recover after a brutal attack by a customer left her with severe injuries, including brain damage, a fractured skull, and a broken nose. The incident occurred on April 14 at a McDonald’s in St. Louis County, where the 15-year-old employee, Aryiah Lynch, was assaulted by a 25-year-old man, Johnny Ricks.
Video footage of the terrifying ordeal shows Ricks violently attacking Lynch, throwing her to the ground by her hair and curb stomping her head. Lynch, who was wearing her red McDonald’s uniform at the time, suffered extensive injuries that required surgery and left her covered in lacerations.
According to Lynch, the attack began after Ricks became hostile while attempting to use the drive-thru. The situation escalated, with Ricks and others he was with spitting at staff and engaging in a physical altercation. Lynch described the incident as a disturbing and unexpected act of violence that has had a profound impact on her and her family.
Ricks, who has a history of criminal offenses including theft, fraud, disorderly conduct, speeding, and littering, has been charged with assault and property damage in connection with the assault on Lynch. He is scheduled to appear in court on April 25 to face these charges.
In response to the incident, the owner of the McDonald’s branch where the attack took place emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of both employees and customers. The establishment has a strict workplace violence policy in place and is cooperating with local authorities in their investigation.
As Lynch continues her recovery from the traumatic assault, her mother has expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and has set up a fundraiser to cover her medical expenses. The community has rallied behind Lynch, with many offering thoughts and prayers for her healing and calling for justice to be served against those responsible for the vicious attack.