Following a series of teenage brawls, a McDonald’s restaurant has barred anyone under the age of 21 from entering.
The Virginia fast-food restaurant in Fairfax County implemented this restriction following a series of incidents involving a nearby high school.
NBC Washington’s footage showed a notice plastered on McDonald’s door announcing “Safety Notice Effective Immediately.”
The sign reads: “Due to repeated incidents of student violence, this McDonald’s location is temporarily closed to dine-in customers under the age of 21.” This decision was made to protect our employees, guests, and community.
It continues: “Adults, we are still here to serve you! Please ring the doorbell, and a team member will help you.” McDonald’s management told NBC that adults who want to eat inside may be asked to show their identification.
Speaking to the news crew outside the establishment, one customer lamented, “These kids are off the chain,” expressing her displeasure with the “disrespect” she is seen from the younger crowd visiting this McDonald’s.
Another customer emphasized the importance of safety in such establishments, stating, “It is a business; it should be a safe environment for families to enjoy their food.”
The Fairfax County McDonald’s Operator confirmed to PEOPLE that all customers are still welcome to place orders using the Mobile App.
“We enjoy being a part of the Edison community, and we value each and every customer. “We have improved our Franconia Road McDonald’s security measures in an effort to create a safer environment for our employees and customers,” the statement read.
“This policy was developed in collaboration with local school officials and overseen by local law enforcement. This is a temporary fix while we work on a long-term solution for everyone. We appreciate our community’s support, understanding, and patience.”
This occurs when the chain brings back Squishmallows. The fast food giant announced on social media that Squishmallows are now available as a toy in Happy Meals. The stuffed animals returned to the children’s boxes on May 13 and are available for a limited time.
McDonald’s and popular toy brand Squishmallow first collaborated in 2023, and the toy quickly became a favorite among customers of all ages. The meals come with one of a dozen possible toys, including a new animal, Halley, an axolotl. The toys have a cult following; Jazwares, the toy manufacturer, claims over 400 million have been sold worldwide.
McDonald’s announced on Instagram that “legend has it… the hunt for Happy Meal @squishmallows is back today!!” Fans expressed their excitement in the comments section for the plushy prize. One user commented, “I NEED THEM ALL!!!!” A different person commented: “Just left my full blown adult job (on lunch break) to get a happy meal.”