In a disturbing incident at a DeLand pizza store, a worker was assaulted by an irate customer over a delayed order. The Volusia County Sheriff’s Office is currently searching for the suspect, identified as 27-year-old Blaine Stafford.
The incident occurred when the victim, an employee at Marco’s Pizza, informed a caller about a 15-minute wait for their pizza order. This seemingly routine update infuriated the caller. Sheriff Mike Chitwood recounted the events that followed, stating, “Blaine Stafford showed up at the store, confronted the employee, and eventually reached over the counter and punched the employee in the face before leaving the store.”
According to the affidavit, the worker pursued Stafford outside to get a clearer look at him. During this pursuit, Stafford allegedly shoved the employee. A 911 caller witnessed the entire altercation. “He was yelling and screaming at everybody, and he just punched some dude. The old man fell down, and the guy just took off walking,” the caller reported.
The victim suffered injuries from the assault, hitting his head on the concrete sidewalk and cutting his ear. Sheriff Chitwood expressed disbelief at the senseless violence, remarking, “You got to be kidding me. You know, you’re ordering a pizza, and you get assault charges on you for what again?”
Using surveillance footage and the victim’s description, detectives identified Stafford as the suspect. The Volusia County Sheriff’s Office is actively searching for him, urging anyone with information on Stafford’s whereabouts to come forward.
This incident highlights the alarming lengths to which some individuals will go over minor inconveniences. It serves as a reminder of the need for patience and civility, particularly towards service workers who are simply performing their duties. As the investigation continues, the community remains hopeful for a swift resolution and justice for the victim.
