A disagreement over a wrong coffee order at a Fresno Dutch Bros turned physical two weeks ago when a customer allegedly hurled a hot cup of coffee at the employee working the walk-up window. The Fresno County Sheriff's Office is now asking the public for help identifying the woman responsible.
The confrontation unfolded around 5:45 p.m. on October 14 at the Dutch Bros near Cedar and Clinton avenues, according to ABC30. An unidentified woman began arguing with the employee at the window because her drink had been made incorrectly, the station reports, citing investigators.
The worker tried to resolve the mix-up on the spot, but the situation escalated quickly. As YourCentralValley.com reported, the employee attempted to fix the order before the customer grew upset and threw the hot coffee directly onto them. Fresno County deputies classified the incident as a battery crime, per KMPH.
Suspect Fled in a Gray SUV With a Paper Plate
After the coffee was thrown, the woman walked away from the window before getting into a vehicle and driving off, the ABC30 report states. Authorities believe the car was a light gray SUV, possibly a Hyundai Ioniq, with a temporary paper license plate attached to the front bumper.
Deputies described the suspect as being in her 30s, standing roughly 5 feet 6 inches to 5 feet 8 inches tall with a medium build. The station's report adds that she was seen wearing a white T-shirt, gray sweatpants and blue sneakers, with her hair pulled back into a ponytail at the time of the incident.
Deputies Ask Public to Help Identify Her
The Fresno County Sheriff's Office is asking anyone who recognizes the woman or her vehicle to come forward with information. Investigators have not said whether the employee was injured or required medical treatment, nor have they indicated whether the suspect has since been identified, cited or arrested.
