A beloved mother of six, known for her tireless work ethic, was brutally killed by a coworker in a Michigan McDonald’s, leaving her family reeling and clues to the tragedy emerging on social media.
On the morning of July 10, 2025, a violent attack unfolded at a McDonald’s on 9 Mile Road in Eastpointe, Michigan. The victim, 39-year-old shift manager Melissa Carter, a mother of six, was fatally stabbed by her coworker, 26-year-old Aisha Jackson, after a workplace dispute. Jackson now faces a first-degree murder charge.
The incident began around 8 a.m. when Carter sent Jackson home following an argument. Jackson returned, masked and armed with a knife, and attacked Carter inside the restaurant. A drive-thru customer, witnessing the assault, fired a warning shot, missing but startling Jackson. “She dropped the knife and ran,” said Detective Lt. Michael Grant of the Eastpointe Police. “The customer chased and held her until we arrived.”
Police arrested Jackson, and Carter was rushed to a hospital but succumbed to her injuries. Jackson was arraigned via Zoom from Macomb County Jail on July 11, charged with first-degree murder. The investigation continues.
Carter’s family is devastated. “She was kind to everyone, even her,” said her daughter, Brianna Lewis, sobbing. “I don’t get why she killed my mom.” Coworkers echoed the shock. “Melissa was amazing. This is unreal,” said employee Tanya Brooks. The restaurant’s owner, Khalid Amari, issued a statement: “We’re heartbroken by this tragedy. Violence has no place here. We’re cooperating with police, and the restaurant is closed until further notice.”
Days before the attack, on July 8, Jackson posted two Instagram videos, calling Carter a “bully” who disrespected staff. “She acts like we’re her kids, talking down to us,” Jackson said, alleging Carter once bragged about pulling a gun on her own children to intimidate her. “I’m not scared,” Jackson added, venting about “animosity” and “manipulation.” Her Instagram, under the artist name Phoenix Rising, links to a music video, hinting at her creative persona.
The community mourns Carter, a dedicated mother whose warmth touched many. A GoFundMe, “Help Melissa’s Family Recover,” started by friend Carla Evans, has raised over $10,000 toward $12,000 for funeral costs and essentials lost in the aftermath. “Melissa was a bright, loving soul,” the campaign reads. “Her loss is unbearable.”
Social media tributes poured in. Neighbor Linda Hayes called Carter “a rock for her kids,” while a coworker, Mark Jensen, wrote, “She didn’t deserve this.” The tragedy is one of five violent incidents in Michigan that week, per local police, highlighting workplace safety concerns.
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