Police are seeking the public’s help in identifying a man wanted for allegedly punching a manager and bartender at Black Rock Grill Bar after being asked to wear a mask inside. The incident occurred around 9:40 p.m. July 10, and the suspect fled the scene after punching one of the employees.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer Utica Police Machete
The suspect was one of a group of nine people who came to the bar. The four members of the group were not wearing masks and were ignoring social distance rules. The staff asked them to return to the lobby and put on their masks. While most of the group agreed to wear masks, the suspect became angry, shouted profanities at the staff, and refused to wear his mask.
When asked to leave, the suspect reportedly punched the bartender and manager in his explosion, part of which was caught on surveillance cameras inside the restaurant.
The incident occurred three days before Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s executive order requiring all businesses to wear masks on the premises went into effect. Two days after the incident, a man attacked Meijer employees in Akme Canton with a knife.
Last week, Sean Ernest Ruiz, 43, was shot and killed by an Eaton County sheriff’s deputy after accosting a deputy during a police inspection. Ruiz was arrested by a deputy in connection with a stabbing that occurred at a convenience store in which Ruiz stabbed a 77-year-old man as a result of an argument over wearing a mask on the premises.
PREVENTION TIPS
In addition to regular hand washing and not touching your face, officials recommend practicing social distancing, suggesting that anyone can carry the virus.
Health officials say you should keep at least 6 feet away from others and, if possible, work from home.
Use disinfectant wipes or sprays to disinfect surfaces often touched in your home (door handles, faucets, countertops), and take hand sanitizer with you when going to places like stores.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has also issued an executive order requiring people to wear face masks over their mouths and noses when in enclosed public places.
