In a disturbing incident at a Wingstop restaurant in Memphis, Tennessee, a 25-year-old employee, Johnisa Herring, is facing aggravated assault charges after allegedly throwing hot cooking oil on two patrons during a dispute. The violent act left one woman severely injured with second-degree burns, while the other sustained less serious injuries. The incident has raised concerns about workplace safety and the dangers of conflict escalation.
Details of the Incident
On July 22, 2024, two women entered a Wingstop on Winchester Road in Memphis to pick up an order. During their time inside, an argument erupted between the women and Johnisa Herring, a 25-year-old employee. According to the complaint affidavit, as the argument continued, Herring went to the kitchen, grabbed a bowl, and filled it with hot cooking oil. She then allegedly returned to the dining area and threw the hot oil onto the two women.
One of the women was hit in the face and upper torso, suffering second-degree burns to 18.5% of her body. She had to be taken to a local hospital for treatment. The other woman was burned on her right shoulder. The more severely injured woman later identified Herring as the person responsible for the attack. However, the exact cause of the argument remains unclear.
Aftermath and Arrest
Following the attack, Herring was arrested and placed in the Shelby County Jail with a $7,500 bond. She was scheduled for an arraignment on Friday, but by the following Saturday, she was no longer listed in the jail’s inmate roster, indicating she may have been released. Herring is set to appear in court again on August 25.
Legal Charges and Consequences
Johnisa Herring faces an aggravated assault charge due to the severity of the injuries caused by the hot oil. Second-degree burns can be extremely painful and often require significant medical treatment. The legal process will continue as Herring’s court date approaches, and the community watches to see the consequences of her actions.
Wingstop’s Response and Community Impact
Wingstop, a popular restaurant chain known for its chicken wings, has yet to release an official statement regarding the incident. While the company’s response remains unknown, the attack has drawn attention to the potential dangers of workplace conflicts that escalate into violence.
The violent incident at Wingstop in Memphis serves as a reminder of how quickly disputes can spiral out of control and lead to devastating consequences. As Johnisa Herring faces aggravated assault charges, the incident highlights the importance of conflict resolution and maintaining a safe environment for both employees and customers in any workplace.
