The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday
Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US
Staff at a McDonald’s restaurant have been praised for coming to the aid of a woman who mouthed “help me” as she entered the drive-thru.
Police in California’s San Joaquin county said the woman, had entered the restaurant on Christmas Eve, and asked staff to call to help as she went to the lavatory.
She tried to place an order at the counter, but the man she was with allegedly told her she had to use the drive-thru facility.
When she did, she said “help me” to the staff on duty.
Shortly afterwards, police arrived, spoke to staff and were directed to the woman’s vehicle.
Drawings by famous names including David Cameron, Helen Mirren and Patrick Stewart to be auctioned in aid of victims of domestic violence
Show all 17
Police found a stolen firearm in the trunk of the vehicle and arrested the man, who has been identified as Eduardo Valenzuela.
Officers said Mr Valenzuela had a record of abusing the woman, who has not been named.
Melissa Benoist says that she is a survivor of domestic violence
The channel said the the Golden State Restaurant Group, which owns the McDonald’s location where the incident took place, has certified each of its restaurants as a “Safe Place”.
The Safe Place programme is a national project for “young people in need of immediate help and safety”, according to the group’s website.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies