Preparedness
Fast Food Fury: Florida McDonald’s Employee Shoots at Enraged Customer
In the early morning hours of a recent Friday, an unfortunate incident involving a McDonald’s employee and a customer occurred in Lakeland, Florida. According to the local police, a customer became angry over an error in their meal order, which escalated into a heated argument that eventually led to the employee allegedly firing a gun at the customer.
This all unfolded around 1 a.m. at a McDonald’s on East Memorial Drive in Lakeland. The Lakeland Police Department detailed the incident in a release on Monday. The situation seemed to spiral out of control when the customers attempted to leave, leading the worker to throw a drink at them.
The customers retaliated by forcing open the drive-thru window and began to fling cups onto the restaurant’s floor. The McDonald’s employee, a 22-year-old female, reappeared with a firearm and was then met with a drink thrown through the window by one of the customers.
“She then proceeded to confront the customers outside,” the police report stated. As the customers attempted to flee in their vehicle, the armed employee fired at the car, striking it at least once. This act was caught on the restaurant’s surveillance camera.
The altercation’s surveillance footage was later obtained and made public by WOFL-TV on its YouTube channel.
The involved McDonald’s worker, identified as 22-year-old Chassidy Gardner, was subsequently arrested. She was charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Polk County Jail records indicate that Gardner was released on a $15,000 bond.
Retired Orlando Police Chief Orlando Rolon shared his thoughts with WOFL, expressing concern over the increasing frequency of such incidents.
“It’s unfortunate because once you fire that round, that round has no mercy. Wherever that round is going, whatever it strikes, it’s going to damage it or kill it,” Rolon stated. “It was totally uncalled-for and unjustified for her to pull the gun on a customer through the drive-through, regardless of what the situation was, unless there was a risk of great bodily harm that was going to be brought on to her, or there is a situation where someone was engaging in some activity that could result in bodily harm.”
He further expressed his surprise that the employee was armed while on duty at a family-friendly establishment. “I’m shocked that she had a weapon of that sort in a place such as a McDonald’s as an employee,” Rolon concluded.
Lakeland, the city where this unfortunate incident occurred, is home to roughly 120,000 residents and is situated approximately 35 miles from Tampa.
Watch a local news report about the incident below:
Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.
Survival isn’t just about wilderness skills or stockpiling food. In today’s America, survival means being ready — financially, mentally, and physically — for rapid change. Under President Trump’s current term, the country is moving fast. Supporters see decisive leadership, tougher borders, economic nationalism, and a renewed focus on American strength. But with that speed comes disruption, resistance, and uncertainty. That’s where personal preparedness comes in.
President Trump has made it clear he believes in self-reliance, national security, and strength over dependence. Those same principles apply at the household level. Whether it’s supply chain pressure, political unrest, inflation, or grid stress, Americans who prepare are simply harder to shake.
1. Control What You Can Control
Trump’s presidency has emphasized America first — but that mindset starts at home. You may not control Congress, global markets, or activist judges, but you can control your food, water, cash reserves, and personal security. A prepared household is less vulnerable to sudden price spikes, shortages, or emergencies caused by political or economic battles in Washington.
Stocking basic food, having backup power, and keeping cash on hand isn’t paranoia — it’s responsibility.
2. Supply Chains Are Still Fragile
Despite economic growth claims and lower energy prices in some areas, grocery costs and essentials remain unpredictable. Trump’s push for tariffs and reshoring manufacturing is aimed at long-term strength, but transitions aren’t painless. Short-term disruptions happen before long-term gains materialize.
Smart Americans don’t wait for headlines to confirm trouble. They quietly build buffers: extra food, household necessities, and alternative sourcing.
3. Civil Unrest Isn’t Going Away
Trump’s presidency continues to expose deep political divides. Protests, counter-protests, and aggressive rhetoric aren’t disappearing — they’re becoming normalized. Survival today means knowing how to avoid trouble, not chase it.
Situational awareness, safe travel habits, and basic home security upgrades matter more now than they did a decade ago. Strong borders don’t eliminate internal instability overnight.
4. Medical and Personal Readiness Matter
Government systems get stressed during shutdowns, disasters, or mass events. Trump often criticizes bloated bureaucracy for a reason — it moves slowly when speed matters. Having basic medical supplies, prescriptions, and personal health plans ensures you don’t depend entirely on institutions that may lag when demand spikes.
Preparedness is independence.
5. Survival Is a Mindset, Not Fear
Trump supporters are often labeled “fearful,” yet preparedness is the opposite of fear. It’s confidence. It’s knowing that no matter what happens — politically, economically, or socially — your family is stable.
The core Trump message has always been strength, resilience, and refusing to be weak or dependent. Survival thinking aligns perfectly with that philosophy.
America is changing. Fast leadership brings fast reactions. The prepared citizen doesn’t panic, protest, or plead — they adapt.
Survival today isn’t about hiding from the future. It’s about being ready to face it head-on.
Traveling internationally can be rewarding, but it also carries risks that vary widely by destination and situation. The U.S. government offers specific safety guidelines to help American travelers prepare, stay informed, and protect themselves throughout their trip.
Here are key practices U.S. citizens should follow to stay safe overseas:
1. Check Travel Advisories Before You Go
The U.S. Department of State issues travel advisories for every country. These advisories use a four-level system to show risk:
- Level 1: Exercise normal precautions
- Level 2: Exercise increased caution
- Level 3: Reconsider travel
- Level 4: Do not travel
Before booking or departing, always review the current advisory for your destination. Higher levels indicate serious risks like crime, civil unrest, terrorism, health emergencies, or limited emergency services.
2. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
Before departure, sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This free service connects you to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and keeps you informed with real-time updates about safety, weather, civil unrest, or health issues in your destination. It also makes it easier for authorities to contact you or your emergency contacts if needed.
3. Know Local Laws and Customs
U.S. citizens abroad must obey the laws of the country they are visiting. Local legal systems and penalties can differ significantly from those in the United States. Travelers should research local laws, dress codes, cultural norms, and any restricted activities before departure to avoid fines, detention, or legal complications.
4. Prepare Important Documents and Contacts
Carry your passport with you at all times and make digital copies of important documents like your passport page, travel insurance, and emergency contacts. Leave copies with someone at home and store them securely online. Keep local embassy contact information readily available in case you need assistance while abroad.
5. Have a Personal Emergency Plan
Emergencies can range from civil unrest and natural disasters to health crises and lost travel documents. Plan ahead:
- Know where the U.S. embassy or consulate is in your destination
- Have a communication plan with family or friends back home
- Know your travel insurance coverage and how to access medical care while abroad
- Understand evacuation routes and local emergency services
During a crisis, the U.S. government may not be able to evacuate you immediately. You should be ready to use commercial travel options to leave if it is safe to do so.
6. Stay Alert and Use Common Sense
Travel safety often comes down to ordinary precautions:
- Avoid risky areas and follow local authority instructions
- Keep a low profile and avoid displaying expensive items
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded or unfamiliar places
These practices reduce the chance of being targeted for theft or other crimes.
Why This Matters Today
Global travel risks can change quickly due to political tensions, health outbreaks, or civil unrest. For example, the U.S. government has issued worldwide travel caution alerts during periods of heightened international tension, underscoring the importance of staying updated with current risks.
Summary of Key Safety Steps
- Check official travel advisories for your destination
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
- Know local laws and customs
- Carry and secure important travel documents
- Prepare a personal emergency plan
- Stay alert and cautious throughout your trip
Traveling across the United States is one of the great freedoms Americans enjoy. Whether you’re driving state to state, flying cross-country, or taking a long road trip, staying safe and fully within the law doesn’t require anything complicated. It just takes preparation, awareness, and a few essentials that every traveler should have in place before they go.
Here are five things you need to travel across America confidently, safely, and legally.
1. Valid Government-Issued Identification
This is non-negotiable.
A valid ID proves who you are and allows you to travel without unnecessary delays or problems.
For most people, this means:
- A valid driver’s license or REAL ID
- A state-issued ID card if you don’t drive
- A valid U.S. passport (especially useful for air travel)
If you’re flying, your ID must meet TSA requirements. If you’re driving, your license must be current and not suspended. Keep your ID easily accessible, but secure.
2. Proof of Legal Residency or Citizenship (If Applicable)
If you are a U.S. citizen, carrying proof such as a passport or passport card adds an extra layer of security during long trips, especially near border states or when flying.
If you are a legal resident or visa holder, you should always carry:
- Your valid visa or green card
- Any required travel documents associated with your status
Having proper documentation protects you from misunderstandings and unnecessary stress.
3. Proper Vehicle Documents (If Driving)
If you’re traveling by car, make sure your paperwork is up to date.
This includes:
- Vehicle registration
- Proof of insurance
- A valid driver’s license
Law enforcement checks are routine and usually brief when paperwork is in order. Keeping documents organized shows responsibility and helps everything go smoothly.
4. A Safe and Legal Travel Plan
You don’t need a strict itinerary, but you should know where you’re going and how you’ll get there.
A smart travel plan includes:
- Knowing your route and major stops
- Booking legal accommodations (hotels, campgrounds, or rentals)
- Understanding basic state laws (speed limits, phone use, toll roads)
Each state has its own rules, and being aware of them helps you avoid fines or problems.
5. Emergency Contacts and Communication
Safety isn’t just about laws — it’s about preparedness.
Carry a charged phone, a car charger or power bank, and a written list of emergency contacts in case technology fails.
It’s also wise to:
- Share your travel plans with someone you trust
- Check weather conditions regularly
- Keep emergency numbers saved and written down
Prepared travelers are calm travelers.
Final Thought
Traveling across America legally and safely doesn’t require fear or special permissions. It requires valid identification, proper documents, respect for local laws, and basic preparedness.
When you travel with everything in order, you’re free to enjoy the journey — not worry about it.
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Delphos Speaks
July 7, 2024 at 11:18 am
Employees should be trained in methods to de-escalate situations. To many times, it is the customer’s poor attitude about an order that creates tension. And the employees should do what they can to correct the order with a friendly smile. As they say, you can win the battle and lose the war. In the other hand, sometimes a customer is inebriated that late at night and cannot be dealt with. But the gun should not have been involved over a drink thrown through a window.
Steve Carson
July 7, 2024 at 11:19 am
Clearly there is a need for anger management class.
Dennis
July 7, 2024 at 11:19 am
She should be charge with murder. The victim had no weapon so she can’t pled self defense! She had no legal right to have of shoot anything. If she get anything less you can tell the democrats some people are above the law. If she had been white she would be still setting in jail or have a much higher bail
Murder is murder and no one is above murder!!!
Pena
July 7, 2024 at 3:01 pm
She was never in danger. Emotions and tempers out of control but doesn’t justify the use of a weapon. The customers were driving away when shot.
Beartoe
July 7, 2024 at 4:38 pm
Old Proverb……. You can take the monkey outta the jungle but you never take the jungle outta the monkey
Marla Summers
July 7, 2024 at 7:50 pm
Well I guess she is Mcfired now! Uncalled for.
Robert Schrader
July 7, 2024 at 9:42 pm
John Q public is the dumbest animal out there.What was the sobriety of the occupants of the vehicle in the drive thru,also where any of occupants charged with anything like assault, battery,or malicious mischief??????
Kirk Ellsworth
July 7, 2024 at 9:45 pm
Retired Orlando Police Chief Orlando Rolon never heard of the robbery/mass murder at a Brown’s chicken in Palatine, Illinois on January 8, 1993? My roommate had worked there, but I had gotten her a job at a Denny’s a few days before that happened. If they had been armed there’s a good chance they’d still be alive.
Leola Clarry
July 7, 2024 at 11:35 pm
She didn’t know if the person had a gun or not so she did what anyone would do, she could have been hurt.
Leola Clarry
July 7, 2024 at 11:45 pm
I have seen where people were hurt by someone using a gun some were killed and still nothing is being done about it. that person is still walking the streets, and this person was taken to court for what she did. Not Right.
David Campbell
July 9, 2024 at 10:22 pm
Don’t know why the retired police cheif is surprised that an employee that works late into the night is armed; seems prudent to me. It is unfortunate that people get so out of control over a fast food order. Anyway, the shooting was not justified, the threat to the worker never escalated to the level of justifying lethal force. Now if the customer had actually forced his way through the window and started to enter the workspace, the employee, being a woman, might then have been justified.
P.S. I did not vote in the pole as the questions don’t seem to match the situation.