In a startling incident on Friday, April 5, 2024, a disagreement over guacamole portions at a Chipotle Mexican Grill in Southfield, Michigan escalated into a violent confrontation, culminating in the shooting of a 21-year-old male employee in the knee.
The incident took place around 7 p.m. at the Chipotle location on Evergreen Road near Civic Center Drive, casting a shadow over the bustling evening.
Witnesses recount that the dispute ignited when a customer, later identified as 32-year-old Aaron Michael Brown of Detroit, came in with his wife and expressed dissatisfaction with the amount of guacamole served with his order. According to onlookers, the female employee involved momentarily retreated behind the counter. During her brief absence, another diner observed Brown attempting to serve himself. “When another staff member returned, a confrontation ensued, followed by a gunshot, prompting us to flee immediately,” one witness recounted, highlighting the sudden shift from a mere verbal altercation to physical violence.
Chief Alvin Baron of the Southfield Police gave further details, “A female Chipotle employee who was serving Mr. Brown gave him what he believed was too small of an amount of guacamole, which upset Mr. Brown.
“Mr. Brown then called the female employee a derogatory name — the ‘B’ word — which upset her understandably. Other Chipotle employees escorted the female cashier away from the area to avoid any further conflict.”
When the coworkers escorted the woman to the kitchen, the front counter was left unattended, Barren continued.
“Our suspect, Mr. Brown, who previously had paid for his food items, then proceeded to go around the counter and bag his own items, and then he took a cup and filled it with guacamole,” Barren said. “The 21-year-old victim walked from the kitchen area and observed Mr. Brown serving himself. The victim knocked the guacamole out of Mr. Brown’s hand. Mr. Brown immediately grabbed the victim by the neck, slammed him into a refrigerator, and then a fight ensued.
“Mr. Brown then pulled out a 9mm handgun, which was concealed on his right hip, and fired one round, striking the victim in his right knee,” Barren said.
“I was just enjoying my meal when I heard raised voices,” shared another witness, seeking anonymity. “Suddenly, there was a loud bang, and everyone started to panic and run. It’s surreal that something as trivial as guacamole could lead to such violence.”
An observer who managed to capture the event on video noted Brown’s unsettlingly calm demeanor after the shooting. “From my car, I saw him calmly get into his vehicle and drive away, which was strange to witness,” the witness said.
The Southfield Police Department responded promptly to the emergency, administering first aid to the injured male employee and ensuring his transportation to the hospital. Officials reported the victim’s condition as stable, with full recovery anticipated.
Brown was apprehended near Arbor Lofts on Civic Center, with police recovering the firearm used in the shooting. Charged with assault with intent to do great bodily harm, discharging a firearm within a building causing injury, and two counts related to the illegal possession of a firearm during a felony, Brown’s arrest has prompted widespread discussion on the implications of concealed carry permits and public safety.
In response to the incident, local resident Leilah Kakaire expressed her disbelief and concern. “I adore guacamole myself, but the idea of resorting to shooting over it is unfathomable,” she said, reflecting the community’s shock and confusion over the motives behind the violence.
Chipotle has since issued a statement emphasizing its focus on the well-being of its staff and customers. “Our thoughts and prayers are with our team member who was injured in this senseless act of violence,” the company declared. “We are cooperating fully with the authorities in their investigation and are hopeful for a swift and just resolution to this matter.”
The case against Brown continues to develop, with his arraignment conducted by Magistrate Melissa King at the 46th District Court. Facing serious felony charges, Brown’s legal proceedings are closely watched by the community. No attorney was listed for Brown. He now faces up to 10 years in prison, plus an additional two years for the firearm charge, if he is convicted.
Brown is scheduled for an April 17 probable cause hearing before 46th District Court Judge Sheila Johnson.
