Taco Bell Worker in Florida Arrested After Soda Dispute Turns Violent

A Taco Bell employee in West Palm Beach was arrested after allegedly firing shots at three women following a disagreement over free soda.

Police report that 20-year-old D’Mari Jy’Quan Patterson discharged a firearm during his shift. The conflict began when the women requested water cups, and one reportedly filled hers with soda instead of water.

Gunfire Caught on Video

Patterson is said to have yelled at the women, and the altercation was recorded by other customers. Video evidence includes the sound of gunshots moments before the first shot.

One woman was struck by a bullet and fell, another was grazed, while the third fled. Patterson allegedly pursued her and fired again, hitting a restaurant window.

Injuries and Charges

The injured women were taken to a hospital; the third woman was unharmed. Patterson faces three charges of aggravated assault with a firearm. It's unclear if he was permitted to carry the firearm for work purposes. The investigation is ongoing.