Wilmington man charged after violent attack on Lucy’s pizza shop employee

A Wilmington man is facing multiple charges after allegedly assaulting an employee during a disturbance at a North Market Street restaurant last Wednesday morning, according to Delaware State Police.

Troopers responded to Lucy’s Restaurant at 3840 North Market Street around 9:37 a.m. on May 7 after receiving a report of a disorderly customer.

Police say 30-year-old Auston Pratt had entered the pizza shop and began arguing with employees and customers.

When staff asked him to leave, Pratt reportedly refused and threatened to kill one of the employees.

A physical altercation followed, during which Pratt allegedly punched the employee several times and placed his arm around the victim’s neck, restricting the employee’s breathing.

The individuals were separated before police arrived. Pratt was taken into custody without incident.

The employee was taken to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Pratt also received treatment for minor injuries.

After being released from the hospital, Pratt was transported to Troop 1, where he was charged with the following offenses:

* Strangulation (Felony)
* Assault in the Third Degree
* Terroristic Threatening
* Disorderly Conduct

Pratt was arraigned at Justice of the Peace Court 3 and committed to the Howard R. Young Correctional Institution on $5,500 secured bond.