BELLEVUE, Wash. — A 48-year-old man faces serious charges after allegedly launching a violent attack on his manager inside a closed Applebee’s restaurant. Marco Antonio Herrera-Chan is currently being held on $100,000 bail for first-degree assault following the incident that occurred on August 31.
Court records indicate that Herrera-Chan, who was performing closing duties as a dishwasher, entered his manager’s office with a hammer and initiated the assault without provocation. Witnesses had described the act as “senseless and shocking.” Reports reveal that Herrera-Chan approached his boss, uttered “lo siento” — Spanish for “I’m sorry” — and struck him in the head.
Despite suffering a serious head injury, the manager managed to defend himself. He blocked a second swing, and the two engaged in an eight-minute struggle that included the manager grabbing a pair of scissors and stabbing Herrera-Chan multiple times in self-defense. The altercation left considerable bloodshed within the restaurant, prompting the victim to lock himself in his office and call 911.
When police arrived, they found both men in need of medical attention. Herrera-Chan was arrested later in a nearby wooded area. Both individuals were taken to Overlake Medical Hospital for their injuries.
In statements to authorities, the manager expressed his disbelief over the attack, noting that there had been no prior conflict between him and Herrera-Chan during their eight months of working together. He described Herrera-Chan as a good employee and indicated that he had no idea what could have triggered such a violent act. During the struggle, the manager reported that he thought he heard Herrera-Chan say, “this is for my mother,” suggesting a potential personal motive.
In a different interview with police, Herrera-Chan reportedly claimed no recollection of the incident, stating he did not know why he attacked his manager. He conceded to using the hammer but asserted that he did not intend to kill him, claiming he would have used more lethal methods if that were his intention.
Surveillance footage reviewed by police corroborated the statements made by both men, showing Herrera-Chan retrieving the hammer from his backpack prior to the assault. They estimated the confrontation lasted between 15 to 20 minutes.
The case has raised concerns regarding workplace safety, especially in establishments that operate late into the night. As the investigation continues, Herrera-Chan is scheduled to appear in court on September 9 to enter his plea regarding the charges against him.