South Carolina Pregnant Woman Attacked By White Gas Station Worker in Ohio And She Lost Her Baby
OHIO — A South Carolina mother has filed a federal lawsuit alleging she suffered a miscarriage after being violently attacked by a gas station cashier while traveling with her family. The incident reportedly occurred at a Circle K in Bowling Green, where the victim says a routine transaction escalated into a brutal assault witnessed by her two children.
What the Lawsuit Claims Happened
According to the complaint, 40-year-old Deria Francis, who was eight weeks pregnant, stopped with her family at a Circle K on East Wooster Street. She attempted to cancel a transaction to enter her rewards number when cashier 28-year-old Shannon Walsh allegedly became hostile.
Court filings and reports indicate the situation quickly turned violent:
- Walsh allegedly threw a jar of coins at Francis’ stomach.
- As Francis tried to leave, Walsh reportedly came around the counter, grabbed her by the hair, and slammed her into a drink cooler.
- Francis claims she was repeatedly struck with a closed fist.
- The attack happened in front of Francis’ two children.
Francis suffered bruising and later miscarried the pregnancy the following day, according to the lawsuit.
Allegations of Racist Language and Negligent Hiring
The complaint also states that Walsh, who is white, used racist language during the alleged assault. Francis, who is African American, argues the attack was not only violent but discriminatory. Police and EMS were called to the scene. Walsh later pleaded no contest to negligent assault and was ordered to complete anger-management training.
Circle K Accused of Failing to Protect Customers
Francis is suing both Walsh and Circle K, claiming the company failed to:
- Maintain a safe customer environment
- Properly hire, train, and supervise employees
- Protect patrons from foreseeable harm
The lawsuit seeks damages for:
- Physical injuries
- Emotional distress
- Medical expenses
- Loss of pregnancy
Her attorneys argue that the gas station failed its duty of care by allowing an unsafe employee to remain in a customer-facing role.
Family Was Traveling for Church Conference
Francis and her family were reportedly en route to Detroit for a church conference when they stopped at the store. The family states the attack has had long-term emotional effects, especially on the children who witnessed it. The case is now moving forward in federal court. Have thoughts about this case or concerns about customer safety? Share your perspective and follow updates at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
