COLUMBUS, OH – A simple trip to grab a late-night meal took a horrifying turn for Kerrigan Norwood, leaving him grappling with serious injuries and an uncertain path forward. What should have been a quick stop at the McDonald’s on East 17th Avenue ended in a violent confrontation, altering Norwood’s life in unexpected ways.
On the night of October 17, Norwood visited the fast-food chain, expecting nothing more than a quick bite. However, a mix-up with his order prompted him to return to the drive-thru, a decision that would soon lead to chaos. Instead of resolving the issue peacefully, Norwood found himself facing aggression from the staff.
Norwood recounted the chilling incident where employees seemed more interested in confrontation than customer service. “The hostility was palpable,” he said, describing a tense atmosphere that quickly escalated into violence.
The situation worsened when several employees left the building, one of whom threw a drink into Norwood’s car. As he attempted to seek help, the confrontation turned physical. Norwood was pulled from his vehicle, his shirt pulled over his head, as he was repeatedly punched. The attack persisted for ten minutes, only ceasing when an onlooker intervened by threatening to involve the authorities.
The assault has left Norwood with significant facial injuries, necessitating reconstructive surgery, and has cast doubt on his plans to join the military. “I wanted to follow in my mother’s footsteps, but now everything is uncertain,” he admitted, reflecting on the potential long-term impact of the attack.
In the aftermath, three McDonald’s employees have been charged with assault, and the case is set to be reviewed by a grand jury. Norwood is determined to see justice served, hoping that the legal proceedings will lead to accountability and prevent future incidents.
As Norwood navigates his recovery, he remains focused on the broader implications of the attack. “These individuals pose a threat to society,” he emphasized, advocating for measures that ensure public safety and prevent similar occurrences.
While the road to recovery is long, Norwood is hopeful that the outcome of this ordeal will lead to positive changes and a safer community for all.