A 23-year-old Checkers employee in Kissimmee, Florida, has been charged with first-degree premeditated murder after allegedly fatally shooting a customer during a dispute over missing mayonnaise packets.
Incident Details
On the evening of May 21, 2025, at approximately 10:10 p.m., customer Wesley Robertson, 40, reportedly complained about his order at the drive-thru window of the Checkers restaurant located at 5780 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway. According to witnesses, Robertson was upset over missing mayonnaise packets and requested to speak with a manager multiple times.
During the exchange, employee Elijah Travis Mackey allegedly exited the restaurant through the drive-thru window, confronted Robertson outside, and engaged in a verbal altercation. Witnesses stated that Robertson insulted Mackey, prompting Mackey to draw a handgun from his waistband and shoot Robertson in the chest.
Surveillance footage corroborated these events, showing Mackey leaving the building and confronting the victim. Robertson collapsed and was transported to Osceola Regional Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.
Arrest and Charges
Following the incident, Mackey fled the scene on foot. He was later apprehended by authorities hiding under a stairwell at the nearby Celebration Suites hotel. Upon arrest, Mackey informed deputies he was armed and repeatedly inquired about Robertson’s condition.
Mackey has been charged with first-degree premeditated murder and is currently being held without bond at the Osceola County Jail.
Company Response
In a statement, a spokesperson for Checkers expressed shock and sadness over the incident, emphasizing that the actions of this one employee do not reflect the values of the thousands of hardworking employees across the country. The company is cooperating with law enforcement in their investigation and extended condolences to the victim’s family.
This tragic event has sparked discussions about workplace safety, conflict de-escalation training, and the importance of effective communication between employees and customers.