A woman was arrested and accused of stabbing another patron at Ruth's Chris steakhouse in Midtown Manhattan Friday night, around 10:00pm.
The NYPD says the situation escalated when a 24-year-old male patron started arguing with an employee. They say 41-year-old Joan Thompson and her companion, seated at another table, overheard the argument and tried to intervene, but instead, Thompson ended up being a part of the problem, as opposed to a helping solution.
The police say that's when Thompson suddenly reached for a steak knife and stabbed the 24-year-old victim in the back.
Ruth's Chris employees told sources that the 24-year-old man was physically aggressive with Thompson and allegedly made some racial remarks.
Ruth's Chris released a statement stating: "We were shocked by the incident that took place inside our restaurant and are working with the New York Police Department to assist in any way possible. The safety of our guests and Team Members is paramount. We ask that all questions be directed to local authorities during their investigation."
The situation ended with Thompson allegedly fleeing, her bill unpaid, and the 24-year-old man at Cornell Medical Center. He is said to be in stable condition and expected to survive.
NYPD officers found Thompson on Saturday. The task was made easier because she had used her personal information to make a reservation.
Thompson is charged with assault and menacing.