LAFAYETTE, CA — An older woman allegedly attacked shoppers with bear spray at a busy parking in
Lafayette. Monica Thomas, 74, of Oakland, was arrested July 25 on suspicion of assault with a deadly
weapon, and unlawful use of tear gas.
The chemical assault occurred at approximately 10:40 a.m. at Trader Joe’s parking lot, 3649 Mount
Diablo Boulevard. Lafayette police responded to reports of a disturbance, but the suspect fled before
officers arrived at the scene.
The parking lot was busy with Saturday morning shoppers. “A total of eight people were exposed to
bear spray,” Lafayette police said in a prepared statement.
Thomas had reportedly argued with another person, before aiming a canister of bear spray out her
vehicle’s window, directly at another person. Witnesses in the parking lot reported the suspect
vehicle’s license plate and direction of travel to Lafayette police.
While driving away, Thomas allegedly took aim a second time and sprayed more victims. Paramedics
treated eight victims at the scene with difficulties breathing. One of the victims was transported to a
hospital for additional evaluation and treatment.
Minutes later, Orinda police stopped and detained Thomas on westbound Highway 24, until Lafayette
police took custody of her. Thomas was identified as the suspect and booked at the Martinez
Detention Facility.
Thomas remains subject to criminal proceedings in Contra Costa County. However, she is no longer
listed in the county jail roster.
– by Jim Emerson
