EVERETT, WA – Authorities in Everett are on the hunt for a suspect accused of targeting baristas at coffee stands along Evergreen Way. The police were first alerted on Sunday around 1 p.m. to an incident at a business in the 5700 block of Evergreen Way. The suspect allegedly forced entry into the Ladybug Espresso and attempted to assault an employee. The barista managed to escape, prompting the suspect to flee the scene.
In a similar incident, officers were called again on Monday around 3:30 p.m. to another coffee stand in the 9100 block of Evergreen Way. The second incident bore a striking resemblance to the first, with the suspect reportedly trying to gain access to the stand and assault a barista.
An anonymous source recounted the ordeal faced by the workers at Steamy Shots Espresso, where the suspect allegedly attempted to jump through a window and assault the staff. “They screamed and ran out the back door,” the source described, detailing the chaotic scene.
The Everett Police Department has intensified its efforts to locate the individual responsible for these attacks. Officers have been distributing flyers featuring the suspect’s image to local businesses, urging employees to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
In addition to stepping up patrols, authorities are advising coffee stand employees to keep windows locked until they can clearly identify and interact with customers. This measure aims to enhance the safety of workers who might be vulnerable to similar attacks.
The incidents have raised concerns among the community and coffee stand operators, who are now on high alert. Police are working closely with business owners to implement safety protocols and prevent further assaults.
As the investigation continues, police are encouraging anyone with information about the suspect or the incidents to come forward. Public cooperation is deemed crucial in apprehending the individual and ensuring the safety of the community.
The series of attacks has put a spotlight on the need for heightened security measures in small businesses, particularly those with vulnerable points of entry. The police department remains committed to solving these cases and restoring a sense of security to the affected areas.