An Amazon delivery driver has been charged with felony elder abuse, criminal threats, and misdemeanor battery following an alleged assault on a 71-year-old man over a parking space at an Elk Grove, California gas station. The incident occurred on March 30.
Surveillance footage from the ARCO Gas Station captured the alleged altercation, showing a man identified as Terrence Wheeler, 30, aggressively confronting the elderly man. According to reports, Wheeler, wearing an Amazon jacket, threatened the victim before allegedly punching him from behind and knocking him to the ground.
The victim's attorney, Tony Buzbee, stated that his client sought treatment for a concussion and neck pain as a result of the incident. Buzbee described the driver's reaction as "hyper aggressive" and suggested the driver has a history of violence. Buzbee also commented on the need for Amazon to improve its screening and training processes for delivery personnel.
Wheeler was arrested and faces legal charges. The elderly man has filed a civil lawsuit against both Wheeler and Amazon. A spokesperson for Amazon stated that Wheeler was not directly employed by Amazon but worked for an independent contractor. Following an investigation, Amazon provided its findings to the contractor and has banned Wheeler from delivering Amazon packages.