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Two women are being sought by police after a Tampa Steak ‘n Shake employee was severely beaten in what investigators say began as a complaint about a mistaken order. The April 26 attack left the worker with a concussion and multiple facial and body injuries, raising fresh concerns about safety for service workers at quick‑service restaurants.
What investigators say happened
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The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office reports the incident occurred at about 11:20 a.m. inside a Steak ‘n Shake on Hillsborough Avenue. Deputies say two female customers entered to dispute a food order, argued with an employee and then moved into an employee‑only area, where the confrontation escalated to violence.
According to the sheriff’s office, the two suspects repeatedly struck the woman with closed fists, pushed her into the lobby and continued the assault as she fell to the floor. One of the suspects reportedly kicked the victim in the head, and another pulled a handgun and threatened to shoot before both fled the scene.
- Date and time: April 26, about 11:20 a.m.
- Location: Steak ‘n Shake, Hillsborough Avenue, Tampa
- Victim injuries: concussion, contusions, lacerations to forehead, upper lip, wrist and left knee; treated at Tampa General Hospital
- Escape vehicle: silver 2007–2009 Honda CR‑V, deputies say
Suspect descriptions
Authorities released separate descriptions of the two women they want to question:
The first woman is described as heavyset, around 5 feet 8 inches tall and roughly 200 pounds. Investigators say she was wearing a black short‑sleeve shirt and baggy black basketball shorts, a black head covering, white ankle socks and black slide sandals; she also wore a gold necklace with a prominent charm.
The second suspect is reported to be about 5 feet 6 inches and 170 pounds, with long blonde hair extensions styled in two ponytails. She was last seen in a light red or pink zip‑up sweater, white jeans and a red hairband.
Official response and community impact
Sheriff Chad Chronister condemned the attack and pledged a focused effort to identify and arrest those responsible, saying the level of force used was unacceptable and would not be tolerated. The episode highlights ongoing safety risks faced by frontline workers and has prompted renewed calls for better protections in customer‑facing jobs.
For the investigation, deputies are asking anyone with information to contact the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office at 813‑247‑8200. Tipsters can remain anonymous through established channels.
If you work in a public‑facing role, this incident underscores the importance of employer safety protocols — from clear procedures for de‑escalation to rapid access to help when disputes turn violent.
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