Man Buys Others’ Meals At Florida Waffle House, Gets Shot To Death For His Generosity

Police say Ezekiel Hicks argued with Craig Brewer, then fatally blasted a bullet into his head on video.

April 10, 2019
Mug shot of Ezekiel Hicks [Alachua County Sheriff's Office]
By: Mike McPadden

GAINESVILLE, FL — A man who had reportedly been picking up customers’ tabs and handing out $20 bills at a Waffle House last Sunday morning was fatally shot in the head by another patron, according to the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office.

Ezekiel Hicks, 25, was arrested in the death of Craig Brewer, 41. He presently faces a charge of first-degree, premeditated murder.

The incident reportedly occurred on Sunday at around 3 A.M. Witnesses said Brewer had been paying other customers’ bills and was handing out $20 bills in the Waffle House. His generosity reportedly angered a female patron who was there with Hicks.

An argument is said to have erupted between Hicks and Brewer, after which Hicks left the restaurant and returned with a 9mm handgun. Another customer reportedly attempted to stop Hicks, but to no avail.

A brief physical skirmish allegedly broke out between Hicks and Brewer. Police say it ended when Hicks fired multiple gunshots at Brewer and hit him at least once in the head, killing him.

Authorities say the entire tragic exchange was captured on the Waffle House’s security video system.

Leiutenant Brett Rhodenizer told the press, “What we’re trying to find out in the days ahead is if this was truly a verbal argument that turned into a murder case or if there is something missing there.”

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