Fort Wayne Police have released a detailed timeline following a May 13, 2026 incident at a Tim Hortons location that preceded the death of 75-year-old Anita Grayson, as investigators continue to examine the circumstances and await final determinations from the Allen County Coroner’s Office.

According to the Fort Wayne Police Department (FWPD), the case remains under active review, with both homicide detectives and crime scene units conducting a comprehensive investigation that included witness interviews, surveillance footage analysis, and full evidence collection at the scene. Officials stated that the complete case file has now been submitted to the Allen County Prosecutor’s Office for further evaluation. The official cause and manner of death have not yet been released, pending autopsy results.

Police emphasized that early reporting was intentionally limited to avoid public confusion and to allow investigators to gather verified facts. However, due to the circulation of incomplete and misleading video footage, authorities have now provided a detailed reconstruction of events based on evidence gathered during the investigation.

FWPD reports that the incident began around 8:09 a.m. when Ms. Grayson entered the restaurant following a dispute connected to a drive-thru order. Once inside, she confronted a 17-year-old employee, prompting a 20-year-old shift lead to intervene and instruct her to leave the premises.

Investigators state that the situation escalated when Ms. Grayson attempted to move past the shift lead toward the employee. A physical altercation followed, during which contact was made between the individuals. The shift lead reportedly sustained minor facial injuries, including scratches and damage to her glasses.

Police say Ms. Grayson then pulled the shift lead to the ground by her hair, after which staff members intervened and separated those involved. Following the confrontation, she remained inside the restaurant, where surveillance footage shows her seated and later collecting hair from the floor and placing it into a bag.

At approximately 8:22 a.m., Ms. Grayson was seen lying on the floor. Employees checked on her condition and provided water while emergency services were contacted. A responding FWPD officer arrived shortly afterward and found her unresponsive. Emergency personnel performed life-saving measures before transporting her to a medical facility, where she was later pronounced deceased.

Authorities stressed that the investigation is ongoing and that conclusions regarding the cause of death will depend on medical findings and prosecutorial review. Officials also reiterated that the case will be evaluated based on the totality of evidence rather than isolated or incomplete public clips.

FWPD has acknowledged the sensitivity surrounding the incident, noting the impact on all parties involved, including employees and family members. Further updates are expected as the investigation proceeds and the coroner’s findings are finalized.