LAWRENCEVILLE, GA – An argument over workplace matters escalated fatally when a Georgia man allegedly shot an employee in a McDonald’s parking lot, authorities confirmed. Neither man was an employee of any McDonald’s restaurant.
Michael Allen Todd, 40, was arrested by Gwinnett County Police without incident on Feb. 19 after officers responded to a midday shooting at a McDonald’s on Sugarloaf Parkway. Todd faces multiple felony charges, including malice murder and felony murder, in connection with the death of his employee, Donald Stewart, 43.
According to police, Todd was Stewart’s employer. Details of their work-related dispute remain unclear, but officials emphasized that the confrontation stemmed from issues unrelated to the fast-food restaurant itself, where neither man was employed.
Responding to a report of gunfire, officers discovered Stewart suffering from a gunshot wound. Stewart was transported by Lawrenceville emergency responders to a nearby hospital. At the time of reporting, authorities confirm that Stewart has died as a result of the injuries he suffered.
Authorities described Todd’s demeanor as cooperative at the crime scene. He was detained following questioning and subsequently arrested.
The altercation appears to have been an isolated event, with investigators indicating no additional suspects are being sought at this time.
Todd has been booked into Gwinnett County Jail and is being held without bond.
Charges against Todd include two counts of aggravated assault, malice murder, felony murder, and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime.