A terrifying incident unfolded at a Chuck E. Cheese in South Carolina last weekend when a teenager brandished a firearm, threatening employees and patrons, and took a man hostage. The incident, which took place in front of frightened children and their parents, has left a lasting impact on those present.
A Midlands father, who wished to remain anonymous, shared his family’s traumatic experience with local Fox affiliate WACH. He described the fear in his children’s eyes, a sight that left him on the verge of tears. His children, he said, have been unable to sleep since the incident.
The suspect, identified as 19-year-old Tavares McFadden-World, allegedly entered the popular children’s entertainment venue and restaurant in Columbia, brandishing a firearm and pointing it at those inside. The Richland County Sheriff’s Department reported that at least three individuals, including an employee, were threatened, and one was taken hostage.
The situation escalated when another patron drew his own firearm and pointed it at McFadden-World. This prompted the teenager to flee, but not before he reportedly dropped his weapon, scattering bullets across the floor.
The Midlands father expressed his wife’s feelings of helplessness during the ordeal. She could only hold their daughters tight, knowing there was nothing else she could do.
After fleeing the scene, McFadden-World allegedly got into a car driven by another teenager, Kenzie Miller. The pair left the scene but were later apprehended when they returned and police were on site investigating the incident.
The father criticized the lack of security measures at the venue, stating that McFadden-World was able to enter without any checks. He claimed the establishment had “zero security.”
Chuck E. Cheese has not responded to requests for comment on the incident.
McFadden-World is now facing multiple charges, including kidnapping, assault and battery, three counts of pointing and presenting a firearm, and tampering with evidence. Miller, the driver of the getaway car, has been charged with obstruction of justice. Both were booked at the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center, with McFadden-World held on a $75,000 bond. Miller’s status remains unclear.