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Taco Bell Worker Charged With Aggravated Assault After West Palm Beach Soda Dispute Shooting

Prosecutors are reviewing the case after police said video undercuts a self-defense claim.

Overview

  • Following Monday's lunchtime shooting inside the Taco Bell at 45th Street and Military Trail, police arrested employee D'Mari Patterson on three counts of aggravated assault with a firearm.
  • At a first appearance Tuesday, a judge set Patterson's bond at $75,000.
  • The arrest report says three women asked for water, one used the cup for soda, a witness video captured the sound of a gun being racked and a shot inside, and the women later drove to JFK North Medical Center with minor injuries.
  • Investigators say Patterson chased the group toward the exit and fired again outside, missing but shattering a front window.
  • Patterson called 911 and said he fired after a customer went behind the counter, his attorney claims he acted to protect the business, and police say surveillance and statements do not support self-defense as the State Attorney's Office reviews the case.