Seattle police have arrested a 33-year-old woman in connection with an alleged robbery and assault involving hot coffee at a gas station in West Seattle.
According to the Seattle Police Department, the incident occurred around 9 p.m. on Wednesday, April 10, at a gas station located in the 5400 block of Delridge Way Southwest. The suspect reportedly spent approximately 15 minutes inside the convenience store before filling two cups with hot coffee. She then exited the premises with one of the cups without paying, leaving the other behind.
When a 45-year-old store clerk confronted her outside to address the unpaid beverage, the situation quickly escalated. Authorities say the woman responded by throwing the hot coffee directly at the employee, causing burns to his face, neck, and chest. The clerk was described as being in visible pain and suffering from significant redness in the affected areas.
Emergency services were called, and Seattle Fire Department medics arrived on the scene to provide medical assistance. Although the clerk declined transportation to the hospital, he received immediate care for his injuries.
The suspect attempted to flee the scene, running across the street to a nearby apartment building. Police located and apprehended her within the same block shortly after the incident. During her arrest, the woman claimed she acted in self-defense.
She has since been booked on suspicion of robbery. The case remains under investigation as authorities determine whether additional charges may be filed.
The confrontation has raised concerns about workplace safety for gas station employees and highlights the risks service workers face during routine encounters with the public.
