Papa John’s Employees Fight Off Hammer-Wielding Attacker With Broom, Hold Him Until Police Arrive

GLASGOW, KY — A late-night cleaning shift turned into a fight for survival Friday when a man armed with a hammer stormed into a Glasgow Papa John’s and began attacking employees.

The workers fought back — with a broom.

Glasgow Police responded around 9:30 p.m. on March 21 to the Papa John’s location on Happy Valley Road after receiving reports of a man assaulting staff with a hammer. When officers arrived, they found employees had already restrained the suspect on the ground.

According to the police citation, 23-year-old Aaron Kelly of Russell Springs entered through the rear of the restaurant while workers were cleaning and immediately began attempting to assault them. Several employees sustained visible injuries during the altercation, though none were described as serious.

Using whatever was available — including a broom — staff defended themselves and managed to subdue Kelly until law enforcement could take over.

Police say Kelly showed signs consistent with substance use at the time of the incident. He was transported to T.J. Samson Community Hospital before being lodged in the Barren County Detention Center.

Charges Filed

Kelly faces the following charges:

  • First-degree assault
  • Public intoxication involving a controlled substance
  • Third-degree criminal mischief

GPD Officer Jonathan Pendley is listed as the arresting officer.

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Glasgow Police Department.

This is a developing story. TEG Report will update as more information becomes available.

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