ELKINS, WV — A shocking workplace violence incident unfolded Friday afternoon at Sakura Japanese Restaurant in Elkins, where an altercation between staff members escalated into a stabbing. Authorities have arrested Shi Span Pink, 48, who now faces malicious assault and malicious wounding charges.
According to the West Virginia State Police, Pink allegedly stabbed fellow employee Shu Shuo Chen, 56, in the face after a dispute broke out in the restaurant’s kitchen around 1:30 p.m. Pink is currently being held at Tygart Valley Regional Jail on a $15,000 cash-only bond.
The criminal complaint filed by Trooper H.J. Bonetti outlines a disturbing chain of events. A witness reported that the conflict began with a verbal argument between Pink and another employee, Xue Ying Xheng. The situation escalated when Pink allegedly struck Xheng with two spatulas.
When Shu Shuo Chen attempted to intervene and defuse the situation, Pink allegedly grabbed a knife and slashed Chen in the face, resulting in a six-inch facial laceration, according to the police report. Authorities also observed a cut on Pink’s left hand, possibly self-inflicted during the attack.
In a fortunate turn of events, several off-duty police officers were dining at the restaurant during the incident and quickly intervened to break up the altercation. The response was further supported by the West Virginia State Police, Randolph County Sheriff’s Office, Elkins City Police Department, and the Randolph County Emergency Squad, all of whom arrived promptly to secure the scene.
Investigators collected key evidence, including the knife, Pink’s shirt, and Chen’s apron, for forensic analysis. Both individuals involved in the stabbing were transported to Davis Medical Center for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.
While the criminal case proceeds, workplace violence victims may also have the right to pursue civil claims. Injuries caused by co-workers or management negligence may justify compensation for:
Physical injuries and medical bills
Emotional trauma and psychological counseling
Lost wages or diminished earning capacity
Unsafe work environment or lack of conflict intervention protocols
In some cases, the restaurant or employer may be civilly liable if they failed to properly screen, supervise, or respond to a dangerous employee or workplace conflict.
At Haggard Crime Victim Attorney, a division of The Haggard Law Firm, we understand that violence in the workplace can leave lasting scars—physically, emotionally, and financially. If you or a loved one has been the victim of an assault at work, you may have grounds for a civil lawsuit in addition to any criminal charges brought against the perpetrator.
Our team is experienced in representing victims of workplace assaults, negligent security, and employee-on-employee violence. We work tirelessly to investigate all contributing factors and hold every responsible party accountable.
Victims of stabbing incidents shouldn’t suffer in silence or carry the burden alone. Legal remedies may be available to support your recovery and ensure justice is served.
Contact Haggard Crime Victim Attorney today for a free and confidential consultation. We’re here to help you understand your rights, explore your legal options, and take the first step toward healing.
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