On a fateful Christmas Eve in Lodi, California, the employees at the Flag City McDonald’s went beyond their duty of serving food – they became heroes who potentially saved a life.
A man and a woman entered the fast-food restaurant, but it was clear that the woman was in danger. However, she mustered the courage to approach the counter and whispered to the staff member to call 911. Her request was accompanied by the license plate number of the vehicle they arrived in. Sensing her urgency, the employee advised her to hide and bought her some time by directing her to the restroom.
When she emerged from the restroom, she made another attempt to approach the counter, presumably to place an order for the man accompanying her, Eduardo Valenzuela. But he intercepted her and instructed her to use the drive-thru instead.
Providentially, the employee had already alerted the police, and the store manager took action by slowing down the line at the drive-thru, granting time for the authorities to arrive. At the drive-thru window, the woman silently mouthed the words “help me” to an observant employee. Shortly after, the police pulled into the parking lot.
Having been informed by the employees, the deputies went outside and ordered the vehicle to pull over. The woman, who was behind the wheel, complied with their instructions. It was then that she was able to divulge to the police the violence she had endured at the hands of Valenzuela. On that day, he had even threatened her with a gun unless she drove him to visit his family.
During a search of the vehicle, the police made a chilling discovery – a loaded revolver owned by Valenzuela, who had a prior felony conviction and was not legally allowed to possess a firearm or ammunition. The deputies wasted no time in taking Valenzuela into custody. He was subsequently booked in the San Joaquin County Jail, facing charges that included criminal threats, possession of stolen property, and felony possession of a firearm. His bail was set at $360,000.
While we wish that such a rescue could occur at any establishment, the woman was particularly fortunate to have chosen this specific McDonald’s. Owned by the Golden State Restaurant Group, which designates its restaurants as “Safe Places,” this location provided her with the help she urgently needed.
The “Safe Place” program is a national initiative created to assist young people in crisis by providing them immediate help and a safe haven. These designated sites can be found in schools, fire stations, libraries, and a variety of businesses. One can easily identify these locations by the distinctive Safe Place stickers displayed on windows and doors.
The certification as a Safe Place means that young people seeking assistance can go to these designated locations, where employees are trained to connect them with a youth service agency. It’s important to note that Safe Place training ensures that employees are vigilant and ready to help anyone in need, regardless of their age. With over 20,000 Safe Place sites across the United States, this network provides a lifeline for those seeking refuge and support.
If you or someone you know is in need of a Safe Place, you can use the interactive map or simply text “safe” along with your city, state, or zip code to 4HELP (44357) to receive information about the nearest Safe Place and the contact details of a local youth agency.
Interviews with the Brave Rescuers
Scroll down below to read interviews with some of the courageous individuals who played a pivotal role in saving the woman in distress on that remarkable Christmas Eve.
Please SHARE this heartwarming story with your friends and family. Together, let’s raise awareness about the importance of Safe Places and the collective effort needed to support those in need.
