by Paris, Texas — A late-night disturbance at a Whataburger restaurant turned chaotic after police say a 41-year-old man returned to the eatery and assaulted the manager, prompting employees to defend themselves using whatever was within reach — including a fry basket and a trash can.
Authorities say the suspect, identified as Anthony William Newhuis, 41, was arrested following the Feb. 22 incident at the fast-food location in Paris.
Verbal Dispute Escalates into Physical Assault
According to the Paris Police Department, officers were initially called to the restaurant after reports that a man had entered the establishment and became verbally abusive toward staff.
Employees reportedly asked the man to leave the premises. Before exiting, he allegedly threatened to return and assault the manager once police had cleared the scene.
The incident report states the suspect warned he would “return and assault the manager” after officers left.
Police cleared the restaurant after the initial disturbance, but the situation quickly escalated.
Authorities say the man returned and allegedly punched the manager multiple times, turning a verbal altercation into a physical attack.
Viral Video Shows Employees Fighting Back
A video recorded by a customer inside the restaurant quickly began circulating online, showing employees defending themselves during the confrontation.
In the footage, one employee is seen repeatedly striking the suspect with a plastic trash can, attempting to stop the attack. Another employee reportedly used a deep-fryer basket in an effort to fend off the man.
The video has since drawn widespread attention on social media, with many viewers commenting on the quick response of the workers during the chaotic moment.
Police later located Newhuis in the restaurant’s parking lot. According to the incident report, he was found bleeding from the head when officers arrived.
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Arrest and Additional Charges
Newhuis was taken into custody and charged with assault resulting in bodily injury, according to jail records.
He also faces a charge of criminal mischief after authorities allege he “intentionally” flooded his cell at the Lamar County Jail following his arrest.
Police say the suspect’s behavior continued after booking, resulting in additional damage inside the jail facility.
Newhuis was released from custody on Monday after posting a $2,500 bond for the assault charge and a $2,000 surety bond for criminal mischief.
A court date has not yet been scheduled.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities have not released further details about the condition of the restaurant manager or whether additional charges could be filed.
The incident has sparked conversations online about workplace safety, especially in customer-facing roles within the fast-food industry.
While no serious injuries beyond the reported head wound have been publicly confirmed, the confrontation serves as a reminder of how quickly situations can escalate — and how employees sometimes must react in real time to protect themselves and others.
What are your thoughts on how this situation unfolded? Share your perspective in the comments below.
