A simple act of kindness by a fast-food worker allegedly took a disastrous and criminal turn yesterday, resulting in a traffic accident and serious injury to a six-year-old child. The incident occurred after a KFC employee, who has since been terminated and taken into custody, allegedly decided to give the young boy a brief “joyride” in a company vehicle.
Police were called to the scene of a two-car collision on the I-40 on-ramp just before 5:00 p.m., discovering the accident involved a KFC delivery or utility van. Witnesses reported that a six-year-old was seen unrestrained in the passenger seat of the van moments before it collided with a sedan.
“We are investigating reports that the KFC employee, identified as Thomas Vance, 24, took the minor out without permission from the child’s guardian or the restaurant management,” stated Police Captain Elena Torres. “Initial reports suggest Mr. Vance intended to ‘surprise’ the child with a short ride, but the excursion quickly ended in disaster when he lost control of the vehicle.”
The six-year-old was transported to a nearby hospital with non-life-threatening but serious injuries, including a broken arm and concussion. The driver of the second vehicle was treated for minor injuries.
KFC corporate management issued an immediate statement, calling the incident “shocking and appalling.” They confirmed Vance’s immediate termination and expressed deep regret to the families involved, adding that they are fully cooperating with the police investigation.
Vance has been arrested and faces several charges, including reckless endangerment of a child, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, and reckless driving. Authorities emphasize that the shocking lapse in judgment could have resulted in a fatality and serves as a grim warning about the dangers of extreme negligence.