Employee Strikes Colleague Over Workload Dispute, Authorities Report

Just a minute after starting his shift at a Pennsylvania restaurant, a man allegedly assaulted a co-worker with a punch to the face, believing he was being burdened with tasks meant for others, according to authorities.

McKinley Maurice Pace Jr., age 35, is currently wanted by the Jeannette Police Department. He faces multiple charges, including aggravated assault with intent to cause serious harm or indifference, simple assault, reckless endangerment, and harassment involving physical contact. An arrest warrant for Pace was issued this past Tuesday, as reported by the police department via their announcement.

The incident took place on March 27 at DeNunzio’s Restaurant, located in Jeannette, Pennsylvania, not far from Pittsburgh. According to court documents shared by local ABC station WTAE, Pace had just arrived at work and immediately began voicing his frustrations about handling the responsibilities of his colleagues.

“I’ve had enough,” Pace allegedly shouted, targeting a particular co-worker. “I’m going to punch him in the face.”

The targeted co-worker reportedly replied, “I’m right here, you don’t have to go upstairs,” as he later recounted to the authorities.

Pace allegedly hit the man in the face multiple times and then approached the co-worker’s wife and hit her in the face, too. The general manager at the time said Pace had only been working for one minute when he launched the attack.

Police were called to the restaurant about a fight, but when they arrived, Pace was not there.

The police department is asking anyone with information about the suspect’s whereabouts to contact the agency.

DeNunzio’s Restaurant has several locations in the greater Pittsburgh area. Its Jeannette location says it is “known for its friendly service, warm atmosphere, and delicious Italian food.”