Teen Charged After Stabbing McDonald’s Co-Worker, Police Say

A Texas teenager has been arrested after police say he fatally stabbed another teen at a McDonald’s restaurant.

The Harris County Sheriff’s Office said a 16-year-old male suspect faces a murder charge in the death of 17-year-old Reginald “RJ” Harrell. Harrell was identified by his family in an interview with KHOU, a local CBS affiliate. He was working Wednesday night at the Cypress, Texas, restaurant when he allegedly became involved in a fight with the suspect. According to a Facebook post from Harris County Constable Precinct 4, deputies responding to reports of a stabbing found Harrell in a bathroom suffering from multiple stab wounds.

Harrell was pronounced dead at the scene. The suspect was arrested and taken into custody.

Authorities said the two teenagers were coworkers. Harrell’s family told KHOU that he was not scheduled to work on the night of the stabbing.

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Investigators have not publicly explained what led to the confrontation. The 16-year-old suspect remains detained at the Harris County Juvenile Detention Center.

Speaking with KHOU, Harrell’s mother, Denisha Dennis, said her youngest son “did not have to go out like this” and “did not deserve this at all.” She added, “I want the kid responsible. I want justice for my son.”

Harrell’s sister, Kourtnee Dennis, told KHOU she never imagined that the last time her brother left home for work would be the final time she saw or spoke with him.

The McDonald’s location where the teenagers worked was temporarily closed after Harrell’s death. In a statement provided to KHOU, owner-operator Michael Gutierrez said, “We are saddened by this tragedy, and our hearts are with the victim’s loved ones and all those impacted. Right now, our focus is on the well-being of our restaurant employees, and supporting them as they process these events.”