Monroe Dispatch - No Struggle, No Progress

During the spring and summer seasons, eating watermelon is a favorite activity for many people. That activity turned into a physical nightmare for Eddie Hooker and his family. Mr. Hooker purchased a watermelon in early April for his family's enjoyment. When he cut the watermelon on April 17, 2021, Mr. Hooker did not notice any external marking or evidence of anything inside the melon. However, he saw that the watermelon had an object inserted inside of it on the following day. He and his wife became very concerned since they had eaten some of the watermelon the previous day. Mr. Hooker first filed a report with the West Monroe Police Department. He and his family were seen at Glenwood Regional Medical Center to be checked for any poisonous damages. It is important to note that Mr. Hooker has attained legal counsel. All details may not be included at this time. During the process of making the complaint, Mr. Hooker and his wife were and still are alarmed that they might have ingested something that may be slowly poisoning them, which may be a substance that could possibly kill his family. He contacted the Food Drug Administration (FDA), which advised him to contact the state of Louisiana Food and Safety complaint office. He followed through with making this contact where he sent pictures of the watermelon. The complaint officer handling this case requested that he send the information from the decal on the watermelon. Information on the decal showed that the watermelon came from the country of Mexico. The complaint officers also requested all series of numbers and purchase information. The food and safety officer did contact the West Monroe Wal-Mart, and the manager on duty did apologize for the inconvenience, and the store wanted to console their fears with the great gift of a $25.00 gift card. Mr. Hooker is more than insulted at this routine lackadaisical offer extended which is of no measured comparison for the mental anguish and anxiety his family is experiencing. This complaint cannot be read without asking the immediate questions: What population of people purchases and eats the most watermelon? Where do most of this population shop for watermelon and any other items? Was the object placed in the watermelon at a local supplier or even by a local employee? Too many avenues of thought and doubt come to mind, and for the victim, Mr. Hooker, and his family to be offered a $25.00 gift card closely akin to 20 pieces of silver (which had much more value) is unbelievable. Without a doubt, the source of placing the item in the watermelon was malicious with the intent to harm other human beings. Will people stop purchasing watermelons from this Wal-Mart or any Wal-Mart? Heaven forbid the suggestion to stop buying or eating watermelon altogether, which would be an unforgivable insult to a favorite summertime treat. By all means, cut watermelons closely before eating, please! Sincere concerns for Mr. Hooker and his family. Hopefully, legal results will be to his benefit and in his favor.

Photo syringed poison watermelon