An Illinois McDonald’s manager and the mother of an employee face felony charges following an altercation that escalated into a shooting over a dispute about trash.
On July 16, 2025, at approximately 4:45 p.m., Belleville Police responded to reports of a disturbance at the McDonald’s located at 125 South Belt East. During their investigation, officials received additional reports indicating that an employee had fired a weapon inside the restaurant.
The incident reportedly began when 44-year-old Kathy M. Bledsoe, the manager on duty, asked a juvenile female employee to take out the trash to the dumpster. When the employee refused, Bledsoe told her to clock out and leave.
The juvenile then contacted her mother, 35-year-old Tynika R. McKinzie, who arrived at the restaurant with another juvenile female. An argument occurred in the lobby, which soon intensified.
Eventually, McKinzie and her daughter entered the area behind the front counter and into the office. McKinzie assaulted Bledsoe, striking her in the face and head. During the fight, Bledsoe pulled out a handgun and fired a shot, hitting McKinzie in the leg.
Bledsoe was taken into custody at the scene and charged with aggravated unlawful use of a weapon. She will be transferred to the St. Clair County Jail.
McKinzie was transported to a hospital for treatment. After being released, she will face charges of aggravated battery and mob action.
