Jessica McLaughlin, a 24-year-old employee, was attacked by her manager during a verbal disagreement. The manager sat on her chest, and strangled her, cutting off her air supply. Find out more in the article below.
Alleged Assault
The confrontation reportedly began with a verbal dispute, which turned violent. Witnesses say the manager grabbed Jessica by the hair, tackled her to the ground, and used her full body weight to restrain her, preventing her from breathing . As coworkers stepped in to help, they too became targets. During the chaos, the suspect allegedly rushed to the backroom to delete security footage before fleeing the scene on a bicycle
Emergency Response and Hospitalization
First responders arrived to find Jessica unconscious on the store floor. She was rushed to Hollywood Presbyterian Hospital in critical condition, having been deprived of oxygen for more than ten minutes, according to her family. Doctors determined that Jessica had suffered severe brain damage and was brain-dead. She remained on life support for several days as her loved ones held vigil.
Family’s Heartbreaking Decision
On July 2, 2025, surrounded by family, friends, and her boyfriend, Jessica was removed from life support and passed away peacefully . Sean described it as the “impossible decision” after multiple second opinions confirmed that her brain had ceased functioning.
Statements from Authorities
The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) confirmed they responded to a battery call at the 7‑Eleven on June 24. The incident is being treated as a homicide investigation. Detectives have obtained surveillance video but have not released it publicly. No arrests have been made; the alleged manager remains unidentified and at large. 7‑Eleven issued a statement expressing condolences, confirming the suspect—an employee—had been terminated, and pledging “full cooperation” with the ongoing investigation.
Remembering Jessica
Sean’s GoFundMe tribute painted a vivid portrait of his sister as a supportive, uplifting presence who made people feel seen and loved. He wrote, “Jessica had a way of making people feel safe, accepted, and loved. … She had such a beautiful soul and deserved so much better than the way her life was taken from her”. Their father, Clancey, described her as a “green‑haired warrior” who devoted herself to helping others—whether feeding the homeless or offering compassion to strangers.
Community Calls for Justice
Jessica’s family is raising funds for her funeral, aiming to give her a respectful and meaningful farewell. As of early July, the GoFundMe page had already raised tens of thousands, close to the target of $50,000. They are appealing for witnesses and information to help locate the suspect.
What Happens Next
The LAPD homicide unit continues to investigate. They are urging anyone with information about the assault or the suspect’s whereabouts to contact their West Bureau. 7‑Eleven has reaffirmed its cooperation with law enforcement and its commitment to staff safety protocols.
Final Thoughts
Jessica McLaughlin’s passing is a heartbreaking loss—she was remembered as a caring, kind-hearted young woman who lifted others. This tragic event highlights pressing concerns around workplace violence and the importance of rapid intervention and safe work environments. As the community mourns, many hope that accountability and justice will follow, and her legacy will inspire lasting change.
