DoorDash Driver Under Criminal Investigation for Allegedly Pepper-Spraying Food Delivery in Indiana
EVANSVILLE, Ind. — A disturbing incident unfolded early Sunday morning when a DoorDash delivery driver allegedly pepper-sprayed a customer’s food order, leaving a local couple suffering from severe burning sensations. The event, captured on a doorbell camera, has sparked a criminal investigation by the Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office.
According to Sheriff Noah Robinson, deputies responded to a residence after the occupants reported sudden illness shortly after consuming their delivered meal. The couple experienced intense burning in their stomachs, throats, mouths, and noses. Upon reviewing video footage from their doorbell camera, they discovered the delivery driver spraying a substance onto the food bag before leaving the premises.
Resident Mark Cardin, who shared the footage with local media, recounted the harrowing experience. “I noticed my wife had started eating, and she started choking and gasping,” Cardin said. “After she had a couple bites of her food, she actually threw up.” Concerned, Cardin inspected the food bag and noticed signs of tampering. The video confirmed his suspicions, showing a woman with purple hair discreetly spraying the bag with an irritant before slipping the spray back into her jacket pocket.
Cardin told WFIE News that the driver was unknown to them and had blocked him on the DoorDash app following the delivery, suggesting the attack was random. “It’s horrific,” Cardin said. “We assume it’s pepper spray. That’s more than likely what it is, but now, in this day and age, you don’t know what could have been sprayed on there.”
DoorDash has acknowledged the incident and is cooperating with local authorities. The company emphasized its commitment to customer safety and stated it is conducting an internal review. Meanwhile, the Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office continues its investigation into the matter, treating it as a criminal act.
Incidents involving food tampering during delivery have raised concerns nationwide, prompting law enforcement agencies to issue warnings to consumers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention highlight the dangers of intentional food contamination, which can cause serious health risks.
Residents are urged to remain vigilant when receiving food deliveries and to report any suspicious activity immediately. The sheriff’s office encourages customers to review security footage if available and to seek medical attention if they experience unusual symptoms after consuming delivered food.
This case adds to a growing list of challenges faced by the food delivery industry, which has seen increased scrutiny over safety protocols. The Federal Trade Commission has also issued guidance on protecting oneself from potential food tampering and fraud.
As the investigation proceeds, authorities have not publicly identified the driver involved. The community awaits further updates, hoping for swift justice and enhanced measures to prevent such alarming incidents in the future.
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