Family Dollar employees beat 68-year-old man into coma over theft
Family Dollar employees beat 68-year-old man into coma over theft
A shocking incident turned tragic. Thus, leaving a 68-year-old man in a coma after he was brutally beaten by employees at a Family Dollar store in Durham, North Carolina. The altercation reportedly began over an attempted theft of a can of air freshener. However, it escalated to a violent confrontation that has sparked outrage and widespread attention on social media.
The Incident: How a Theft Attempt Turned Violent
The incident occurred at the Family Dollar store on Old Oxford Road in Durham. Reginald Allen, a 68-year-old man, allegedly attempted to steal a can of air freshener from the store. What followed has been described as a horrific escalation of violence. As a result, it has left Allen fighting for his life in a coma.
Footage circulating on social media shows the store’s manager, identified only as Camille, striking Allen across the back with the very item he was accused of trying to steal—a can of air freshener. The situation quickly deteriorated as other store employees became involved. These other employees wound up holding Allen down. Thus, preventing him from leaving the premises.
The Violent Confrontation Caught on Video
The video, which lasts just over three minutes, captures the chaotic and violent scene. Allen is seen on the ground, struggling to get up. Meanwhile an unidentified man holds onto his legs. Camille continues to strike Allen with the can of air freshener, while another woman enters the store and slaps Allen. This other woman claimed he had thrown something at her mother.
As the confrontation continues, two men are seen dragging Allen across the floor as he attempts to crawl toward the exit. Camille, instead of de-escalating the situation, directs the men to restrain Allen further while she clears obstacles out of their path. Another Family Dollar employee then joins in, helping to move objects that might obstruct the ongoing assault.
Family Dollar Employees’ Actions Under Scrutiny
The brutal nature of the assault has raised serious questions about the conduct of the Family Dollar employees involved. Camille, the store manager, appears to have played a central role in the violence. Not only did she physically assault Allen, but also she coordinated the actions of the other employees. Her actions, along with those of her colleagues, have drawn widespread condemnation.
The video does not show the initial moments leading up to the beating. However it clearly captures the aftermath and the severity of the assault. At one point, Camille is seen attempting to stomp a small metal rack out of Allen’s hands. Thus, further demonstrating the level of aggression displayed by the employees.
The Aftermath: Reginald Allen’s Condition
Following the brutal attack, Reginald Allen was taken to Duke Regional Hospital. Currently, he remains unresponsive in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). According to his daughter, Ayana Edwards, Allen is in a coma with bleeding on his brain. This is a condition that doctors are closely monitoring.
“He is in a coma and has bleeding on his brain,” Edwards said. “He’s in the ICU.”
Edwards recounted the horrifying moment she learned of her father’s condition. She received a call from her mother on Thursday evening, informing her that something had happened to her father. As a result, her mother told her that they needed to go to the hospital immediately. Upon their arrival, they were met with the devastating news of Allen’s injuries.
Public Outcry and Calls for Justice
The video of the assault has quickly gone viral, sparking outrage and calls for justice from the public. Many have taken to social media to express their shock and disgust at the actions of the Family Dollar employees. As a result, they’re demanding accountability. In addition, they’re questioning how such an incident could occur over something as minor as an alleged theft.
Also, there are those calling for a more thorough investigation into the incident. In addition, there are calls for the employees involved to be held responsible for their actions. The use of excessive force, particularly against an elderly man, has been a focal point of the criticism.
Legal and Corporate Response
As of now, there has been no official statement from Family Dollar regarding the incident. It remains unclear whether any of the employees involved have been suspended or terminated as a result of their actions. The Durham Police Department is reportedly investigating the incident. However no arrests have been made at this time.
Legal experts suggest that the employees could face serious charges, including assault and battery, given the severity of Allen’s injuries. Additionally, the possibility of civil lawsuits against the individuals involved, as well as the company, looms large.
The lack of an immediate response from Family Dollar has only led to more discussion. As a result, many are questioning why the company hasn’t spoken about this store’s actions. A growing number of people want to ensure justice is served. The incident has also reignited discussions about the need for better training and protocols for employees in retail environments, particularly when dealing with suspected theft.
A Call for Accountability
The beating of Reginald Allen at a Family Dollar store in Durham is another reminder of the dangers of escalating minor conflicts into violent confrontations. As Allen lies in a coma, fighting for his life, the community and the public at large are demanding answers and accountability. This tragic incident shows the importance of de-escalation. In addition, the incident shows the need for responsible behavior from those in positions of authority, particularly when dealing with vulnerable individuals.
As the investigation continues, many are watching closely to see how justice will be served for Reginald Allen and his family. In the meantime, the story serves as a sobering example of the consequences of unchecked aggression and the urgent need for systemic change in how such situations are handled.
Source: The North Carolina Beat