A California store clerk suffered serious burns and ended up in the emergency room after trying to stop an alleged shoplifter. The incident occurred at Appian Food and Liquor in El Sobrante on September 22. The clerk, Suraj, was working with his coworker when Kendall Burton entered the store and allegedly stole lighter fluid for the third time that day.
Suraj was alerted by his coworker about the theft and went to confront Burton. However, what started as a confrontation quickly escalated into a violent struggle. Newly released surveillance video shows Suraj grappling with Burton, while his coworker retrieves a baseball bat from inside the store.
During the struggle, Burton poured an accelerant over Suraj’s head and set him on fire. The horrifying incident was captured on video, which unfortunately cuts off before the outcome. Suraj, engulfed in flames, frantically ran to the bathroom to extinguish the fire by dousing himself with water.
Immediately following the incident, Suraj was rushed to a local hospital, where he received treatment for serious burns on his face, neck, chest, and shoulder. His injuries were severe, and he requires multiple surgeries to repair the extensive damage.
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Speaking from his hospital bed, Suraj expressed his belief that no one should have to face such dangers while at work. He called for increased security in the workplace to ensure the safety of employees. Suraj has a long road to recovery ahead of him and is grateful for the support he has received from his wife and the community.
To help cover the mounting medical costs, Suraj’s wife has set up a GoFundMe page. The page aims to raise funds to support Suraj’s recovery and return to a normal life. The community has rallied around Suraj, with many individuals and businesses showing their support by donating to the campaign.
Meanwhile, Kendall Burton, the alleged shoplifter who set Suraj on fire, has been arrested and charged with assault with a deadly weapon, battery, arson, and robbery. He is currently being held without bail.
This shocking incident highlights the significant risks faced by retail workers in their line of duty. It serves as a reminder of the importance of adequate security measures and the need to protect employees from harm. Employers must prioritize the safety of their staff and implement measures to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.
The community’s response to Suraj’s plight demonstrates the power of unity and support during difficult times. It showcases the compassion and generosity of people coming together to help someone in need. By donating to the GoFundMe page or offering assistance in any way possible, individuals can make a difference in Suraj’s journey towards recovery and regaining a sense of normalcy.
In conclusion, the store clerk’s encounter with an alleged shoplifter turned tragic when he was set on fire. This harrowing incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by retail workers and the need for enhanced security measures. Furthermore, the community’s support for Suraj and his family highlights the strength of unity and compassion in difficult times. By rallying together, individuals can make a positive impact and help Suraj in his long road to recovery.
