The Fort Wayne Police Department (FWPD) states that any loss of life is a tragic event and emphasizes that when circumstances are unclear, a full and professional investigation is required.
Following an incident at the Tim Hortons on May 13, 2026, involving 75-year-old Anita Grayson and store employees, FWPD Homicide Detectives and Crime Scene personnel conducted a comprehensive investigation. This included witness interviews, surveillance review, evidence collection, and full scene documentation. The Allen County Coroner’s Office has completed an autopsy request, and the official cause and manner of death remain pending.
The complete investigative file was submitted to the Allen County Prosecutor’s Office on May 19, 2026, for review.
FWPD initially released limited information out of respect for the family and to avoid additional distress following the incident. However, due to misinformation and incomplete video circulating publicly, the department is now releasing a detailed timeline of verified events.
Incident Timeline
At approximately 8:09 a.m., Ms. Grayson entered the Tim Hortons following a dispute related to a drive-thru order. Once inside, she confronted a 17-year-old employee. A 20-year-old shift lead intervened and instructed her to leave.
The situation escalated as Ms. Grayson attempted to move past the shift lead toward the juvenile employee. A physical altercation occurred, during which both individuals made contact. The shift lead sustained facial injuries, including scratches and loss of her glasses.
Ms. Grayson then pulled the shift lead to the ground by her hair. Employees attempted to intervene and separate the individuals before they were eventually pulled apart.
After the altercation, Ms. Grayson sat down inside the restaurant and used her cellphone. Surveillance shows her later picking up hair from the floor and placing it into a bag.
At approximately 8:22 a.m., Ms. Grayson laid down on the floor. Employees checked on her wellbeing and provided water. A FWPD officer arrived shortly after and found her unresponsive.
Emergency responders provided life-saving measures and transported her to a medical facility, where she was later pronounced deceased.
FWPD acknowledges the sensitivity of this case and the concern it has generated. Officials stress that the investigation will continue to be guided by the full evidence, not partial or misleading public information.
Further updates will be released as the investigation progresses.
