by Orlando, Florida — A 43-year-old man has been arrested after authorities say he violently attacked a Chinese restaurant in Orlando, damaged property and struck the owner with a shovel during the incident.
Deputies with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office responded to a 911 call on February 23 regarding an aggravated battery at Pearl’s Chinese restaurant on Central Florida Parkway.
Suspect Allegedly Forced Entry, Headed to Kitchen
According to an arrest affidavit obtained by local outlet WESH 2, the restaurant owner told deputies that Richard Jarvis first attempted to enter the business through the back door.
The owner reportedly told investigators that Jarvis made alarming threats, including saying he was going to harm people inside the restaurant.
When he was unable to gain access through the rear entrance, deputies say Jarvis entered through the front door and went directly to the kitchen area. Once inside, he allegedly began throwing food, damaging equipment and destroying items with a shovel.
Confrontation With Owner
Authorities say the owner confronted Jarvis while he was vandalizing the kitchen. Deputies allege that when the owner attempted to get away, Jarvis struck him in the back with the shovel.
The affidavit states that Jarvis also made threatening remarks during the confrontation.
When deputies arrived at the scene, Jarvis was taken into custody without further incident.
He has been charged with:
- Aggravated battery
- Criminal mischief
- Burglary of a structure with a weapon
It is not yet clear whether Jarvis has entered a plea or retained an attorney.
Disturbing Statements Allegedly Made
According to the affidavit, Jarvis allegedly made several bizarre statements during the incident, including claiming to be a “prophet” and asserting that he was “trying to save everyone.”
He also allegedly referenced conspiracy-related claims about Chinese restaurants.
Authorities have not released additional details about his mental state.
Nearby Businesses React
Vanessa Trejo, manager of a nearby martial arts studio, told WESH 2 that she heard someone yelling for help and immediately called 911.
“I heard help, help. I said, ‘Did you hear that?’ I immediately went to get my husband to go back there,” Trejo said.
Trejo said she had picked up food from the restaurant about 30 minutes before the incident occurred.
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She added that restaurant staff had earlier locked the back door after noticing Jarvis behaving suspiciously outside.
“We were really scared because nothing like this really happens,” she said.
Increased Security Measures
Following the attack, nearby businesses say they are reviewing security practices, including keeping doors locked and limiting access points.
One customer expressed concern about the long-term impact on the restaurant owner.
“We think about the long-term ramifications of this owner now,” customer Clifton Hall said. “Every customer that comes in his door potentially could be a threat to him.”
The Orange County Sheriff’s Office has not released further updates as the investigation continues.
What are your thoughts on this incident and business safety measures? Share your views respectfully in the comments below.
