Lansing, Mich. — A Detroit man has been sentenced to prison after a violent altercation at a Southfield Chipotle restaurant last year, which authorities have dubbed a “guacamole dispute.”
On April 5, 2024, Aaron Michael Brown, 27, engaged in a physical confrontation with an employee at the Chipotle located on Evergreen Road. The disagreement, reportedly over the cost of guacamole, quickly escalated, culminating in Brown shooting the employee in the leg.
Brown fled the scene following the incident, but Southfield police apprehended him later that day. He was subsequently charged with assault causing bodily harm less than murder/strangulation and felony firearm possession.
On Monday, Brown was sentenced to a prison term of 1 to 10 years for the assault charge, in addition to a mandatory 2 years for the felony firearm conviction.
Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald condemned the violent actions, emphasizing the unacceptable nature of the crime. “The victim in this case was shot in the leg for simply doing his job. That is unacceptable,” McDonald said. “This was a serious crime, and Aaron Brown will serve serious prison time for his actions. This sentence provides the victim with justice.”
The shooting left the victim with serious injuries, but authorities have not disclosed further details regarding the employee’s condition.
This incident underscores the potential dangers that can arise in everyday interactions, particularly when tempers flare over seemingly minor issues. As Brown faces prison time, the case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of resorting to violence in the face of conflict.
