A dispute over a parking space at a Northern California gas station escalated when an Amazon delivery driver allegedly punched a 71-year-old man, according to new surveillance footage released by Elk Grove police.
The incident occurred in March at an Arco gas station, where Terrence Wheeler, 30, is seen on video confronting the elderly man after he took a parking spot Wheeler wanted. The footage shows Wheeler following the man into the store, shouting at him, and then allegedly striking him in the head with a forceful punch that sent the victim to the ground.
Authorities identified Wheeler as the suspect. He surrendered to police later the same day and was subsequently jailed on charges including felony elder abuse, criminal threats, and misdemeanor battery.
The victim, an auditor who travels for work inspecting agricultural and animal facilities, was on his way to a hotel near Sacramento International Airport when he stopped for a drink. According to his attorney's office, he followed the Amazon van to note its license plate before returning to the store where employees witnessed the attack and contacted police.
The victim's attorney, Tony Buzbee, stated that the man, who had a pacemaker implanted after a heart attack in 2024, continues to suffer from a concussion and lingering neck pain. Buzbee suggested that Wheeler has a history of violence and called for Amazon to improve its screening and training processes for delivery personnel.
Attorneys for the victim are seeking $10 million in damages from both Amazon and Wheeler. Amazon has stated that Wheeler was not directly employed by the company but worked for an independent delivery contractor. The company confirmed that the contractor dropped Wheeler after Amazon became aware of the incident.