Police responded to a reported altercation at Mac’s restaurant on West McGalliard Road in Muncie around 10 a.m. on Wednesday. According to court documents, an argument erupted between two groups of patrons in the dining area.
Restaurant employees stepped in to try to calm the situation. During the attempt to de‑escalate, an employee says the woman, later identified as Melissa Thennes, produced a handgun and pointed it at staff while holding an infant.
Witnesses reported that employees instructed the woman to leave the premises. Thennes is said to have complied and placed the firearm away after the staff’s request.
When investigators later spoke with Thennes, she claimed she feared for the child’s safety and drew the weapon for protection. Police subsequently searched her vehicle and discovered a firearm stored beneath the driver’s seat.
Thennes was arrested on a preliminary felony charge of pointing a firearm at another person. The case remains pending further court proceedings.
Community response
Local residents expressed concern over the incident, emphasizing the importance of maintaining safe public spaces for families. Community leaders reiterated the need for calm and respectful behavior in shared venues.
Legal process
The preliminary felony charge carries potential penalties, and Thennes will appear before a judge for a bail hearing. Authorities have not released additional details regarding possible additional charges or sentencing guidelines at this stage.
The incident highlights ongoing concerns about firearm safety and responsible gun handling in public settings. Law enforcement officials in Muncie continue to encourage citizens to report any threatening behavior promptly.
Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.
