Muskego Taco Bell Shooting, Taco Bell Worker Shoots at 3 Customers After One Tried to Fill Water Cup with Soda

A 20-year-old employee at Taco Bell is facing multiple charges after allegedly firing a gun at customers during a confrontation inside the restaurant, authorities said.

D’Mari Jy’Quan Patterson was arrested on April 27 and charged with three counts of aggravated assault with a firearm, according to court documents. The incident took place in West Palm Beach and reportedly began when two customers approached the counter requesting a cup for water.

According to investigators, a verbal dispute escalated between Patterson and the customers after one of them used the soda fountain. As tensions grew, a third customer entered the restaurant. Witness footage cited in the affidavit reportedly captured Patterson shouting, “Do something!” repeatedly during the altercation.

Authorities say another employee attempted to intervene and separate Patterson from the group. Shortly afterward, the sound of a firearm being racked was heard. Patterson allegedly struck one of the customers and fired a shot, while another victim was injured during what police described as a pistol-whipping.

As the situation continued outside, Patterson allegedly followed the group and fired another shot toward a customer attempting to leave. The bullet reportedly missed and shattered a window.

The three customers later drove themselves to JFK North Medical Center for treatment. Two were reported to have sustained minor injuries.

Patterson told authorities he believed the customers were armed and claimed he fired into the air. However, investigators say there is no evidence supporting that claim and allege he played an active role in escalating the confrontation.

He appeared in court on April 28 and remains in custody. The Florida State Attorney’s Office is continuing its investigation, with his next court date scheduled for May 27.