Video shows man allegedly trying to kidnap barista through drive-through window in Washington state; made arrest

AUBURN, Wash. (KABC) — A man who police said tried to kidnap a cafe barista through a drive-through window in Washington state early Monday morning has been arrested.

The man, whose identity has not yet been released, was caught on video pulling up in a pickup truck to the window and grabbing the woman’s arm as she tried to give him money.

Footage of the incident was posted to Facebook by the Auburn Police Department.

Investigators said the man attempted to use a zipper as he attempted to drag the barista to the drive-through window. The video shows the woman struggling before he drives off.

The camera captured a clear view of a tattoo on the man’s arm and a side profile of his face.

Kelli Jackson, who works at another coffee stand near Auburn, was shocked when she saw the video.

“She obviously changes money, gives him back his change for his drink, and then tries to grab her,” she said. “It’s absolutely terrifying, scary when these things happen, you know? It makes you a little nervous.”

Kolby Crossley of the Auburn Police Department said the calls came in as pictures of the suspect began to circulate.

“The community has played an absolutely huge role,” she said.

The arrest has since become the focus of talks in the area.

“Thank goodness her instinct was to move away and do things like that,” said Jackson, who said the incident highlighted the precautions so many baristas rely on, such as high-quality security cameras.

“We are equipped with many cameras for security reasons,” she said. “We have pepper spray in the stores, we also have a panic button here.”

The incident is being further investigated. No injuries were reported.

CNN contributed to this report.