Whataburger Staff Fend Off Attacker with Trash Can and Fry Basket

Viral video shows employees taking action to protect themselves and customers during an alleged assault at a Texas fast-food restaurant.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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A viral video captured the moment Whataburger employees in Paris, Texas, fended off an alleged attacker using a fry basket and a trash can. Witness Billy Jones reported that a man dressed in black entered the restaurant and began assaulting a worker, prompting other staff members to intervene and strike the suspect until he fled the scene. Police later arrested 41-year-old Anthony William Newhuis and charged him with assault and public intoxication.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the challenges fast-food workers can face when dealing with disruptive or violent customers, and the importance of employee training and security measures to protect both staff and patrons. The viral video also showcases the quick thinking and bravery of the Whataburger employees who took action to defend themselves and their workplace.

The details

According to the witness Billy Jones, the man dressed in black entered the Whataburger and began attacking one of the employees. In response, another worker grabbed a wire fry basket and struck the suspect on the head, knocking him to the ground. The manager then grabbed a trash can and repeatedly hit the man until he fled the restaurant. Employees can be heard in the video calling for someone to press the panic button, and police were eventually called to the scene.

  • The incident occurred on February 25, 2026, at a Whataburger location in Paris, Texas.

The players

Anthony William Newhuis

A 41-year-old man from Spring, Texas, who was arrested and charged with assault resulting in bodily injury and public intoxication following the incident at the Whataburger.

Billy Jones

A customer who was eating at the Whataburger when the incident occurred and witnessed the employees fending off the alleged attacker.

Whataburger

A popular fast-food restaurant chain with locations across Texas and other states, known for its burgers and fries.

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What they’re saying

“I began recording as the manager followed suit — using a trash can to repeatedly strike the suspect.”

— Billy Jones, Witness (KDFW)

What’s next

The suspect, Anthony William Newhuis, was taken to a medical facility for treatment of his injury and then placed in jail. While in jail, police said, Newhuis flooded the cells intentionally and was subsequently charged with criminal mischief less than $750.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of employee training and security measures in fast-food establishments to protect both staff and customers from potential threats. The quick thinking and bravery of the Whataburger employees in this case likely prevented further harm and showcased the resilience of the fast-food industry in the face of challenging situations.