Louisville, Kentucky — A Texas Roadhouse employee was hospitalized after being shot during a confrontation with a customer who was allegedly attempting to leave the restaurant without paying, according to Louisville police.
The incident occurred Thursday evening and led to the arrest of a 24-year-old Louisville man who now faces felony charges in connection with the shooting.
Authorities said the employee’s injuries were not considered life-threatening, and the suspect was taken into custody at the scene.
Shooting Reported at Louisville Texas Roadhouse
According to the Louisville Metro Police Department, officers responded to reports of a shooting shortly after 6 p.m. on June 11 at a Texas Roadhouse restaurant located on Old Outer Loop in Louisville.
When officers arrived, they found a man suffering from a gunshot wound.
Police immediately provided medical assistance until emergency medical personnel arrived. The victim was then transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Officials later confirmed that the employee sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
The shooting prompted a significant police response as investigators worked to determine what led to the violence.
Dispute Began Over Alleged Unpaid Bill
According to court documents cited by local media outlets, the incident began when a restaurant employee noticed a customer allegedly attempting to leave without paying for his meal.
Investigators allege the employee confronted the customer and grabbed him by the arm in an attempt to stop him. The customer was later identified as Ronald Winter, 24, of Louisville.
According to the arrest affidavit, Winter allegedly reached for a firearm that was either in his pocket or waistband during the confrontation. Authorities said the situation quickly escalated into a physical struggle.
Employee Shot During Physical Altercation
Investigators allege that when the employee attempted to tackle Winter, a gun discharged during the struggle. The employee was struck in the shoulder and suffered injuries that required hospitalization.
Police have not released additional details regarding whether the firearm was intentionally fired or discharged during the physical confrontation.
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Following the shooting, officers arrested Winter at the scene without further incident.
He was charged with second-degree assault and initially booked into the Bullitt County Jail before being transferred to the Louisville Metro Department of Corrections.
According to jail records, Winter remains in custody on a $25,000 bond.
Restaurant Reopened Following Investigation
The Texas Roadhouse location temporarily closed while investigators processed the scene and collected evidence. The following day, the restaurant announced on social media that it would reopen to customers at 3 p.m.
In a message to patrons, restaurant management thanked emergency responders and community members for their support during the incident.
“We want to extend our thanks to our local first responders for their assistance, as well as to the Louisville community for your support and concern for our Roadies and guests. We look forward to serving you today.”
The statement did not provide additional information about the injured employee’s condition.
Court Hearing Scheduled Later This Month
Authorities said Winter is scheduled to appear in court on June 22 for a preliminary hearing.
As of the latest reports, it remains unclear whether he has retained legal representation to respond to the allegations against him. The investigation remains ongoing as detectives continue reviewing evidence and witness statements related to the shooting.
The incident has drawn attention to the risks restaurant workers can face when attempting to intervene during disputes involving customers, particularly when situations escalate unexpectedly.
What do you think? Should employees be encouraged to confront suspected dine-and-dash customers, or should those situations be left entirely to law enforcement? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
