Chester, Maryland — A dispute over a delayed fast-food order ended with multiple criminal charges after a Maryland woman allegedly threatened Taco Bell employees while displaying a handgun inside the restaurant, according to local authorities.
The incident occurred on June 18 at a Taco Bell located in the Kent Town Market shopping area in Chester, a community on Kent Island in Queen Anne’s County.
Deputies say the confrontation escalated after the customer became upset about how long she had been waiting for her food.
Argument Allegedly Escalated Over Wait Time
According to the Queen Anne’s County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to reports of a woman displaying a firearm during a confrontation with restaurant employees.
When officers arrived, they detained two people, including 30-year-old Ashley Andrews, who matched the description provided by witnesses.
Investigators said Andrews became frustrated over the wait for her order and allegedly challenged employees during the argument.
According to the sheriff’s office, witnesses told investigators that Andrews instructed workers to “meet her outside” in the restaurant’s parking lot.
Authorities allege she then lifted her shirt to reveal a handgun while making threatening remarks toward employees.
Deputies Recover Loaded Firearm
Following Andrews’ detention, deputies searched her and recovered what authorities described as a loaded firearm.
Restaurant employees later identified Andrews as the individual involved in the confrontation.
Investigators also reviewed surveillance footage from inside the restaurant along with cellphone video recorded by an employee.
According to the sheriff’s office, the recordings were consistent with witness accounts.
Authorities said the footage appeared to show Andrews lifting her shirt, displaying the firearm, and placing her hand on the weapon’s grip while continuing the argument.
Officials have not released additional details regarding any other statements allegedly made during the confrontation.
Woman Faces Multiple Criminal Charges
As a result of the investigation, Andrews has been charged with several offenses, including:
- Second-degree assault
- Displaying a handgun to another person
- Disturbing the peace/disorderly conduct
- Reckless endangerment
Authorities have not indicated whether anyone was physically injured during the incident.
The charges stem from the alleged threats and display of the firearm rather than any reported shooting or physical assault.
Case Moves Toward Trial
Court records indicate Andrews was initially held on $5,000 bail, which she posted the following day. She has since been released pending further court proceedings.
The records also show that she is being represented by a public defender. During a recent hearing, Andrews invoked her right to a speedy trial.
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Her trial is currently scheduled to begin on July 23. The allegations remain accusations, and Andrews is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
As the legal process continues, prosecutors will present evidence gathered during the investigation, including surveillance footage, cellphone video, and witness testimony.
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