Bikini-Clad Barista Smashes Angry Customer’s Windshield with a Hammer

Seattle, WA – In a dramatic and heated altercation at a South Seattle drive-thru coffee shop, a bikini-clad barista, Emma Lee, 23, smashed a customer's windshield with a hammer after he threw a $22 coffee in her face. The incident, which took place on June 11 at 'Taste of Heaven Espresso,' has sparked a widespread debate on social media, with opinions divided over the appropriateness of Lee's response.

The confrontation began when the customer, a frequent patron known for his complaints about the high prices, ordered a 32-ounce coffee and a 24-ounce water, totaling approximately $22. According to Lee, the customer refused to pay the full amount, leading to a heated argument. The situation escalated when the man exited his vehicle and threw the iced coffee at Lee through the drive-thru window, verbally assaulting her with the words, "Nobody is going to miss you."

Feeling threatened and taking the man's words as a direct threat, Lee reacted by grabbing a hammer and smashing the windshield of the man's car. The entire incident was captured on CCTV and later shared on social media, where it quickly went viral. The video shows the man throwing the coffee at Lee, followed by her striking his car with the hammer.

Lee, who owns and operates 'Taste of Heaven Espresso,' explained that the customer had been aggressive towards her in the past, but this was the first time he had become physically violent. "The majority of people we meet throughout our shifts are kind, respectful, overall amazing humans," Lee said in a social media post. "However, on occasion, we see the ones that think it is appropriate to get violent both verbally and physically."

The barista cited her right to protect her property and claimed she acted in self-defense. "It was a threat after screaming, spitting, and trying to pry open the window, I felt in danger," Lee stated. She also mentioned that she often tries to defuse such situations by charging the customer an even $20, but this time, he insisted on paying less than the cost.

The incident has ignited a larger conversation about workplace harassment and the expectations placed on service industry workers. Some social media users have applauded Lee's actions, viewing them as a bold stand against harassment. One commenter wrote, "The hammer to the windshield was extremely satisfying!! I'm so glad you stood up for not only yourself but all of us girlies in the industry!! We deal with this on a daily basis! Hopefully, others will learn from this interaction."

However, not all reactions have been positive. Critics have argued that Lee's response was excessive and could be considered a felony. One critic commented, "So you then commit a felony and aggravated assault him … not a good look sweet pea. I hope you mend your relationship with your father."

Despite the mixed reactions, Lee remains unapologetic. "Why should this kind of interaction be expected because of the environment? It's disgusting. It's okay for him to be outraged, but it's not appropriate for me to respond?" she questioned.

Following the incident, police were called, and an investigation was initiated. Lee has since filed misdemeanor assault charges against the customer, who is now banned from the coffee stand. However, the customer could potentially take Lee to small claims court for the cost of his windshield.

Lee's actions have highlighted the need for a conversation about respect and appropriate behavior in all workplaces. As the debate continues, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by service industry workers and the importance of addressing workplace harassment.

In the meantime, 'Taste of Heaven Espresso' remains open for business, with Lee standing by her actions and prepared to face any legal consequences. "No one is forcing you to come here," she reiterated, emphasizing that the prices are clearly listed and that customers should not expect to name their own price.

As the story unfolds, it remains to be seen how the legal proceedings will play out and what impact this incident will have on the broader conversation about workplace harassment and the rights of service industry workers.