Texas McDonald’s Customer Sentenced to Life After Killing Patron Over $1.41 Filet-O-Fish Refund
HOUSTON, TEXAS — A man who opened fire inside a McDonald’s restaurant after arguing over a $1.41 refund has been sentenced to life in prison, bringing a swift and severe conclusion to a case that shocked customers and employees alike. Anthony Landry, 59, was convicted of murder for the fatal shooting of 46-year-old attorney Jeffrey Limmer inside a fast-food restaurant along the Katy Freeway in Houston.
A jury took just 20 minutes to return a guilty verdict, and on Thursday, a Harris County judge imposed a life sentence, according to court records and local reporting.
Argument Over Filet-O-Fish Sparks Deadly Confrontation
Prosecutors said the violence began around 6 p.m. on May 4, 2024, when Landry became angry over his Filet-O-Fish sandwich order. Authorities said the sandwich was missing a patty, prompting Landry to demand a refund of $1.41.
Inside the crowded McDonald’s, Landry allegedly began yelling at employees, escalating the situation in front of other customers. Witnesses told investigators that Jeffrey Limmer, who was dining at the restaurant, stepped in to intervene.
Police said Limmer attempted to calm the situation and ultimately pushed Landry out the door, causing him to fall outside the restaurant. What followed would turn a minor customer dispute into a deadly act of violence.
Gun Retrieved, Victim Shot Multiple Times
According to prosecutors, Landry walked to his vehicle after being pushed out of the restaurant and retrieved a firearm. He then returned inside the McDonald’s, where customers and employees were still present.
Landry opened fire, shooting Limmer nine times, authorities said. Chaos erupted inside the restaurant as witnesses scrambled for safety and employees attempted to help the victim.
Despite efforts by customers and staff to save him, Limmer was pronounced dead at the scene. Houston police immediately launched a manhunt, announcing that Landry was wanted for murder.
Suspect Turns Himself In After One Week
Landry fled following the shooting but turned himself in one week later, according to the Houston Police Department. He was arrested and charged with murder, setting the stage for a trial that would move quickly once it reached a jury.
On Wednesday, jurors deliberated for approximately 20 minutes before finding Landry guilty. The following day, he was sentenced to life in prison, ensuring he will spend the remainder of his life behind bars.
Victim Remembered as Calm, Compassionate Attorney
Jeffrey Limmer was a 46-year-old attorney working as an associate at the Houston office of Lewis Brisbois, according to his professional biography. Family members described him as someone who naturally tried to de-escalate conflict and stand up for others.
His sister, Jennifer Thomas, said her brother’s actions inside the McDonald’s were entirely consistent with his character.
“Knowing Jeff, he’s the one who always says, ‘Calm down. It’s not that big of a deal,’ and divert the situation,” Thomas said. “He’s always wanted to fight for the little guy and do the right thing.”
Thomas said her brother lived nearby and frequently visited the McDonald’s where he was killed.
“He loved fiercely his family and friends,” she said. “Always laughing, making jokes, and just loving life.”
Prior Criminal Case Raised Concerns
Court records revealed that Landry was out on bond at the time of the McDonald’s shooting. In February, just months before the killing, he had been arrested for aggravated assault, accused of hitting a family member with a cane.
Prosecutors pointed to Landry’s prior arrest as evidence of a pattern of violent behavior, arguing that the life sentence was necessary to protect the public.
Community Reacts to Fast-Food Restaurant Killing
The shooting sent shockwaves through Houston, particularly because it unfolded in a family-friendly restaurant over a minor refund dispute. Law enforcement officials emphasized that the case highlights how quickly everyday conflicts can escalate when firearms are involved.
Authorities also noted the danger posed to innocent bystanders, as the restaurant was filled with customers and employees at the time of the shooting.
Life Sentence Brings Legal Closure
With Landry now sentenced to life, the criminal case has reached its conclusion, though the emotional impact on Limmer’s family and the Houston community remains.
Prosecutors said the swift verdict reflected the overwhelming evidence and the senselessness of the violence.
As Houston continues grappling with gun violence in public spaces, the case stands as a sobering reminder of how a dispute over $1.41 ended a life and forever altered countless others.
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