Markell Hitchings, a 21-year-old cook at a Kentucky Fried Chicken in Florissant, Missouri, described a terrifying encounter with a suspect who attempted to rob the restaurant on Monday morning.
Hitchings recounted that he noticed a man dressed in black near the restroom and became convinced the individual would act soon. “I thought he was a regular customer just going to the bathroom and leaving,” Hitchings said. “But I had it back in my mind that he was going to try to do something.”
The suspect returned behind the counter, demanding money from Hitchings’ manager. When the manager dropped to the floor, Hitchings instructed her to give him the cash to avoid injury. After obtaining the money, the robber fled through the front door and around to the back of the business where Hitchings was also present. The suspect demanded Hitchings’ cell phone, which he refused, triggering a physical struggle near the drive-thru area.
“I was screaming for help because I was losing adrenaline,” Hitchings said. During the altercation, the suspect dropped his gun and eventually fell into a chokehold that Hitchings secured. The suspect, identified as Tamon Sleet, attempted to strike with rocks but failed. Employees from a neighboring business called 911, and police arrived shortly after arresting Sleet. Officers recovered a stolen firearm and cash during the incident.
Police reported that Sleet had previously attempted to strangle a ride-share driver in north St. Louis County several days earlier. Hitchings expressed gratitude that all involved—himself, his manager, and the driver—survived unharmed. “It all just happened so fast. I know it was dangerous. I wouldn’t advise anyone to do that,” Hitchings said. “I was never afraid at all. Honestly, I thank God that it all played out the way it did.”
Sleet remains jailed Thursday night on a $250,000 cash bond and faces multiple charges including assault, armed criminal action, and vehicle hijacking.
