LEESBURG, Fla. – A confrontation at a Leesburg McDonald’s escalated into gunfire, sending a customer running for safety and leading to the arrest of a 17-year-old employee on attempted murder charges, police said.
According to the Leesburg Police Department, the teenager, identified as Richard Ammons, was on duty when the incident unfolded June 8 at the McDonald’s restaurant on North 14th Street.
Investigators said the situation began when Ammons and a customer got into an argument while the customer was placing an order. Police said surveillance footage later showed a man dressed in black handing Ammons what appeared to be a handgun, which Ammons then placed in his waistband.
The dispute eventually moved into the parking lot, where police said Ammons pointed the gun at the customer and the customer tried to grab it. Investigators said Ammons hit the victim in the head with the firearm, leaving a laceration, before firing one round as the victim ran for cover. The shot did not strike anyone, police said.
Officers responded to the restaurant around 10:30 p.m. and saw Ammons leaving the area on a bicycle, according to police. Authorities said he ignored commands to stop, but an officer located him a short distance away. Body-camera footage released by the department shows Ammons being arrested while still wearing his McDonald’s uniform.
Police said officers found a Glock-style handgun in Ammons’ waistband, describing the weapon as having a suspected 3D-printed frame and an extended magazine. Investigators also reported finding nearly 19 grams of marijuana inside his backpack.
During questioning, police said Ammons told investigators he carried the gun for protection and claimed the customer had robbed him previously.
Ammons faces several charges, including attempted second-degree murder, aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and possession of a firearm by a minor, according to police.
News 6 went to the restaurant and employees said Ammons has been fired. Management declined to comment.
News 6 has contacted the owner and McDonald’s corporate office with questions about the teen’s employment, safety concerns for customers and workers and the company’s policy on guns on the property. A response has not yet been received.
