Police arrested 22-year-old Brianna Alvelo for allegedly stabbing Melinda Irizarry, a pregnant woman, 14 times after being upset over the $2 tip she received for delivering pizza at the Riviera Motel in Kissimmee, Florida, on December 22. Irizarry was reportedly celebrating her boyfriend's birthday with her 5-year-old daughter at the time.
The incident began when Irizarry ordered pizza from Marco's Pizza, with the total cost amounting to $33.10. After handing Alvelo, the delivery driver, a $50 bill, she requested change, only to find out it was against store policy. Requiring smaller bills for the order, she eventually managed to give the driver just $2 as a tip. Witnesses mentioned Alvelo rolled her eyes and walked away without acknowledging the tip.
Approximately 90 minutes after the initial delivery, Alvelo returned to the motel, this time accompanied by an unidentified male suspect who was armed with a gun. They forced their way inside, where the victim's boyfriend was ordered to the bathroom at gunpoint.
While the boyfriend was held captive, Alvelo began searching through the belongings of Irizarry and her daughter. Reports indicate she violently attacked Irizarry with a pocket knife, inflicting 14 stab wounds, including to her chest, abdomen, and arms. The assault was so severe it caused Irizarry to suffer from a ruptured lung, requiring immediate surgery. Thankfully, she is now reported to be stable and recovering.
During the attack, Irizarry tried to protect her daughter, reportedly throwing her onto the bed to shield her from harm. Irizarry later told officers how Alvelo had violently smashed her phone and even broke her child's Nintendo Switch during the chaos.
Following the violent encounter, police apprehended Alvelo, who faces severe charges, including attempted murder, home invasion with a firearm, kidnapping, and aggravated assault, as stated by the Osceola County Sheriff's Office. She is currently being held at the Osceola County Jail, with setting bail at $55,000. Authorities are also seeking the male suspect, who remains unidentified.
Marco's Pizza released a statement expressing their sorrow over the incident, emphasizing their commitment to prioritizing the safety and well-being of their customers and team members. They are cooperating with local authorities as the investigation continues. "The safety and well-being of customers and team members are always our top priority, and we are taking this incident very seriously," said the spokesperson.
Alvelo's actions have drawn significant attention and concern from the local community, raising questions about workplace aggression and customer service standards in the food delivery industry. Reports continue to emerge about the psychological impacts on victims of such violent incidents and the broader effects on families and communities, especially with the presence of children during the attack.
This shocking case serves as a grim reminder of how minor disputes can escalate irresponsibly and dangerously. The situation highlights the importance of addressing conflicts effectively and safely, especially within service sectors.
Law enforcement has urged anyone with information about the male suspect to contact Crimeline at (800) 423-8477, emphasizing their commitment to investigating this violent incident thoroughly.
