A heated argument in a McDonald’s drive-thru in Davenport, Florida escalated into violence inside the store, leaving one man shot and all three involved facing criminal charges. The employee claims self-defense after being threatened, while authorities continue to sort through the chaotic confrontation.

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DAVENPORT, FL (3-minute read) — What started as a late-night fast food frustration quickly turned into a chaotic confrontation involving threats, a physical struggle, and a discharged firearm inside a McDonald’s in Davenport, according to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.

It happened early Sunday morning when Peter Story, 20, and Nicholas Jones, 18, pulled into the McDonald’s drive-thru and were told by employee Yoan Soto, 21, that the store was too busy to take more orders. That response reportedly enraged the pair, who then threatened Soto and said they would wait in the parking lot for him to get off work.

A manager told deputies that the two men later came inside the store and reignited the argument, leading to a physical confrontation. According to Sheriff Grady Judd, during the altercation, one of the men referenced having a “switch” and a “30-clip,” suggesting they may have been armed or were implying the threat of firearm violence.

Soto responded by retrieving a handgun from the back of the store and confronted the two men. Surveillance footage reportedly shows Soto pushing Jones and then turning toward Story. A struggle broke out, and the firearm discharged, striking Story in the neck. His injury was not life-threatening, and he is expected to recover.

After the shot, Soto picked up the shell casing and reportedly told another employee that it belonged to him, which led to him being charged with tampering with physical evidence. Story and Jones were charged with disorderly conduct and trespassing after refusing to leave the property when instructed.

Was It Self-Defense?

Sheriff Judd stated that Soto may have had reason to fear for his safety, given the threats made and the aggressive behavior of the two customers. Florida’s self-defense laws, including Stand Your Ground, could potentially come into play if Soto’s legal team argues he believed he was in imminent danger.

This case highlights how quickly tempers and threats can escalate when firearms are involved, especially in high-stress environments like fast food establishments, which often operate late hours with limited staffing.

Safety Tip: If you carry a firearm for self-defense, always understand your legal responsibilities. Knowing when you’re justified in using force, and how to de-escalate tense situations, can make the difference between lawful defense and criminal charges.