Imagine a typical late-night coffee run, the kind many of us make to fuel our busy lives. Now, picture that simple errand taking a dark and terrifying turn. That's exactly what happened at a drive-thru espresso stand in Lakewood, Washington, leaving a barista shaken and a community concerned.

Early in the morning on August 18th, security cameras at Ladybug Bikini Espresso captured a chilling scene. The footage, now widely circulated, shows a 19-year-old man attempting to forcefully pull a barista, who was wearing a bikini, through the drive-thru window.

The incident unfolded quickly. The barista, as seen in the CCTV recording, was simply doing her job, handing a customer their drink. What should have been a routine transaction escalated into a violent and frightening ordeal in a matter of seconds.

The suspect, identified as Ezekiel Guerrero, is seen reaching for the worker and grabbing her arm with considerable force. He then yanks her violently towards his vehicle, attempting to pull her through the narrow window opening.

The video is disturbing to watch. The barista is seen bracing her legs against the counter, desperately clinging to the window frame. In the struggle, her shirt is ripped open, highlighting the intensity and violence of the attempted abduction.

Thankfully, the barista was able to fend off the attacker. After a struggle, Guerrero released his grip, and the quick-thinking barista managed to slam the drive-thru window shut, preventing further assault. Guerrero then sped away from the scene.

Despite her bravery, the barista was left with visible injuries. Red marks and abrasions were evident on her wrist, bicep, and shoulder, physical reminders of the terrifying assault she endured.

Following the incident, law enforcement apprehended Guerrero. He was taken into custody and, according to reports, confessed to the assault on Monday. He attributed his actions to the influence of alcohol and marijuana, claiming his judgment was impaired.

During his police interrogation, which was also recorded, Guerrero, in handcuffs, attempted to explain his actions. His account, however, offers little comfort and raises further questions about his motives.

Guerrero reportedly admitted to reaching for the barista and grabbing her. He claimed that upon hearing her cry for help, he released her and fled the scene. He stated, "It was just a flash, the moment I realized what I did, I let go. I don’t even know why I showed up there, I was drunk I was upset."

He further told officers that he was "sad" about a recent breakup with his ex-girlfriend and that he had stopped at the 24/7 coffee stand simply to see a "pretty girl." He maintains that he never intended to harm anyone, a claim that is difficult to reconcile with his violent actions.

The barista, understandably shaken by the experience, later spoke with FOX 13 Seattle. She expressed her disappointment and concern that Guerrero had been released without bail, given the violent nature of his crime.

Her words are powerful and resonate with the fears of many who work in similar environments. She stated, "I’m honestly just really upset that since he’s young and it’s his first offense that he got no bail, or house arrest."

She went on to say, "If he’s committing violent acts like this at the rip age of 19 years old, I’m not too confident that he won’t do that again to someone else who might end up less fortunate than I did.” Her concern for the safety of others is evident and speaks to the potential for future harm.

Guerrero has pleaded not guilty to first-degree attempted kidnapping. He is scheduled to appear back in court later this month to face the charges against him. The legal proceedings will undoubtedly be closely watched by the community and those concerned about the safety of service workers.

This disturbing incident comes at a time when bikini baristas across Washington State, where lingerie-clad coffee shops are a common sight, are increasingly reporting alarming encounters with predatory men. The issue raises questions about the safety and protection of workers in these establishments.

The popularity of these types of coffee shops, while offering a unique business model, also presents unique challenges. The attire of the baristas can, unfortunately, attract unwanted attention and, in some cases, lead to harassment and even violence.

The case highlights the vulnerabilities faced by individuals in certain service industry roles. It underscores the need for increased awareness, security measures, and support systems to protect employees from potential harm.

The incident at Ladybug Bikini Espresso serves as a stark reminder of the importance of personal safety and the need for a safe working environment for all. It also raises broader questions about the objectification of women and the potential consequences of such objectification.

The investigation into the attempted kidnapping is ongoing, and further details may emerge as the case progresses through the legal system. The focus remains on ensuring justice for the victim and preventing similar incidents from happening in the future.

The community in Lakewood, and beyond, is hoping that this case will lead to a greater understanding of the challenges faced by bikini baristas and other service workers, as well as inspire meaningful action to protect their safety and well-being. The safety of workers should always be a priority.

The video footage from his police interrogation provides some insight into the suspect’s mindset and raises further questions about his motives and intentions. You can view the footage from his police interrogation here.