By Associated Press - Thursday, July 9, 2020

YUMA, Ariz. (AP) - A couple accused of intentionally coughing on employees at a Walmart store in Yuma and then trying to flee have been arrested, police said.

Employees told police that 38-year-old Frank Montoya and 23-year-old Victoria Parra Carranza refused to wear masks in the store when asked Wednesday and then deliberately coughed on them.

Store officials called police in light of the coronavirus pandemic that has made Arizona a national hot spot for cases.

It was unclear if either Montoya or Parra Carranza have been tested for COVID-19.

When police arrived, they said the couple refused to cooperate and became confrontational.

They said Montoya eventually fled on foot and was later arrested after fighting with officers.

Parra Carranza tried to interfere with Montoya’s arrest and also was taken into custody, according to police.

Montoya and Parra Carranza have been booked into the Yuma County jail on suspicion of aggravated assault, disorderly conduct and other charges.

It was unclear Wednesday if either of them has a lawyer yet.

Copyright © 2024 The Washington Times, LLC.

Please read our comment policy before commenting.

Click to Read More and View Comments

Click to Hide