by Los Angeles, Calif. – A civil lawsuit has been filed against McDonald’s Corp. and two franchise holders following a deadly incident in a Los Angeles drive-thru that left 58-year-old Maria Vargas Luna dead. The complaint alleges that employees witnessed the attack unfold in real time but failed to call 911 or intervene, contributing directly to Luna’s death.
Incident Overview
The incident occurred on March 9, 2024, at the McDonald’s location at 245 North Soto Street. According to the lawsuit, Luna and her husband Jose Juan Rangel were targeted by Charles Cornelius Green Jr., described as a “known vagrant” who had previously frequented the restaurant.
Employees reportedly watched Green approach vehicles, solicit money, and linger near customers for at least ten minutes before attacking the couple. Rangel was struck repeatedly through the driver-side window, and when Luna attempted to help him, Green allegedly pushed her to the ground, causing severe head trauma, which ultimately led to her death after months on life support.
“Employees watched the assault unfold through the drive-thru window and on live video feeds and still chose not to call 911 or activate any emergency response,” said Rangel in the complaint.
Allegations Against McDonald’s
The lawsuit claims employees failed to recognize clear warning signs and ignored the imminent danger posed by Green. Despite the restaurant’s history of violent incidents—including over 70 assaults or disturbances reported to police between January 1, 2020, and March 9, 2024—the McDonald’s location allegedly lacked sufficient security measures.
The complaint highlights that employees could have called authorities, warned patrons, or removed the attacker, but did nothing. It alleges:
“Defendants had the means and responsibility to prevent this tragedy, but this business location is notorious in the community for ignoring the safety of its paying customers.”
Legal Proceedings and Criminal Charges
Green was charged with a felony battery and a misdemeanor battery count. However, prosecutors dropped the felony charge, reportedly determining that Luna’s fall was accidental. He was released on his own recognizance, with the status of his misdemeanor case unclear.
Rangel’s attorney, Ali R. Kazempour, emphasized that the civil case focuses on the preventable nature of the attack and the alleged negligence of McDonald’s employees:
“The lawsuit documents a history of criminal activity at this location, employees’ real-time observation of the attacker, and a failure to intervene despite clear warning signs. We intend to pursue justice through the court process.”
Context and Safety Concerns
The McDonald’s location in question had been a frequent site of criminal activity, including assaults, battery, robbery, vandalism, and trespassing, according to Los Angeles Police Department records cited in the complaint. Officials allege the restaurant’s management was aware of recurring dangerous conditions yet failed to implement measures to protect customers.
Conclusion
The lawsuit seeks to hold McDonald’s and its franchise holders accountable for what Rangel and his attorney describe as a preventable tragedy that occurred under their watch.
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