A man armed with a hammer was arrested Saturday morning after reportedly assaulting two individuals at a fast-food restaurant on Homer Road and leading police on a foot chase through town.
Officers responded to the Burger King on Homer Road at 10:58 AM following reports of an active disturbance. Dispatch advised that the suspect was striking people with a hammer. Upon arrival, officers observed a man fleeing the scene on foot. Witnesses, including employees and bystanders, identified the suspect as Derek Rice, 32.
Officers pursued Rice, issuing several verbal commands for him to stop and comply. Despite deploying pepper spray and less-lethal beanbag rounds, Rice continued to evade capture. During the chase, Rice repeatedly claimed he was armed with a gun. Officers eventually subdued him on Britt Street, using a Taser to gain compliance and take him into custody.
Witnesses and victims at the scene recounted the incident, stating that Rice entered the restaurant wielding a hammer and demanded money and food, threatening, “I’m going to bash everybody in the head.” He moved behind the counter, where an employee confronted him. A second individual attempted to assist, leading to a physical struggle.
Rice struck both men in the head with the hammer, leaving them with severe lacerations and bloodied clothing. During the altercation, Rice reportedly gained control of a knife and attempted to stab the men before fleeing the scene.
The two victims were treated for their injuries, and Rice was transported to Minden Medical Center for evaluation before being booked at the Minden Police Department.
Rice faces multiple charges, including disturbing the peace, obstruction of a public highway, three counts of resisting arrest, two counts of second-degree attempted murder, and armed robbery. He was later transported to Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center.
This incident remains under investigation.
All subjects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.