Delivery Driver Killed, Worker Injured in Stabbing at Oswego Chick-fil-A: What Chicago-Area Workers Need to Know
A tragic workplace violence incident recently occurred at a Chick-fil-A restaurant in Oswego, Illinois, where a 19-year-old man was charged with murder and multiple felonies after allegedly stabbing several people. According to reports, one delivery driver was killed and another maintenance worker was seriously injured while performing job-related duties at the restaurant.
(Source: ABC7 Chicago)
While the criminal case will move through the courts, incidents like this raise an important legal question for injured workers and their families across Illinois:
Are injuries caused by violent attacks at work covered by workers’ compensation?
In many cases, the answer is yes.
Are Workplace Assaults Covered by Illinois Workers’ Compensation?
Illinois workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, meaning injured employees can receive benefits regardless of who caused the injury — even when the harm results from a criminal act by a third party.
👉 Learn more here:
Illinois Workers’ Compensation Is a No-Fault System — What That Means for Injured Workers
If an employee is injured in the course of employment, workers’ compensation benefits may apply even when the injury is caused by:
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A violent customer or stranger
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A robbery or assault at a worksite
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An attack while making a delivery or performing maintenance
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A third-party criminal act unrelated to the employer
In the Oswego case, the victims were reportedly a delivery driver and a maintenance worker — both exposed to risk because of their work duties. Under Illinois law, injuries suffered in these circumstances are often considered work-related and compensable, even if the employer did nothing wrong.
When Is a Violent Workplace Injury Compensable?
Workers’ compensation claims involving assaults focus on whether the injury:
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Arose out of employment, and
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Occurred in the course of employment
Coverage is more likely when:
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The employee was on duty or performing job tasks
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The injury occurred at a job site or work-related location
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The risk of violence was connected to the nature of the job
This commonly applies to delivery drivers, restaurant employees, maintenance workers, warehouse workers, and other service-industry employees who regularly interact with the public.
👉 See the types of workers we commonly represent here:
Workers We Represent in Illinois Workers’ Compensation Cases
Insurance companies often try to deny assault-related claims by arguing the attack was “personal” rather than work-related. These cases are highly fact-specific and frequently require legal advocacy.
What Workers’ Compensation Benefits Are Available After a Workplace Attack?
If a workplace assault is deemed compensable, injured workers in Illinois may be entitled to:
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Medical benefits for emergency treatment, surgery, therapy, and follow-up care
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Temporary Total Disability (TTD) benefits while unable to work
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Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) benefits for lasting physical impairment
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Vocational rehabilitation if returning to the same job is not possible
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Wage differential benefits if the worker returns at lower pay
👉 A full breakdown is available here:
Types of Workers’ Compensation Benefits Available in Illinois
Workplace Violence, Third-Party Claims, and Additional Legal Options
In some cases, a violent workplace injury may involve both a workers’ compensation claim and a separate third-party personal injury lawsuit — particularly when a negligent third party contributed to unsafe conditions.
👉 Learn more about when this may apply:
Can You Sue If You’re Hurt at Work in Illinois?
Workers’ compensation can still provide immediate medical and wage benefits even while a third-party case is being evaluated.
Why Workplace Assault Claims Are Often Denied — and What to Do
Insurance companies frequently deny workers’ compensation claims involving assaults by arguing the injury was not sufficiently connected to employment. This is one of the most common reasons injured workers see benefits delayed or cut off.
👉 If this happens, read:
What to Do If Your Workers’ Comp Claim Is Denied in Illinois
Speaking with a Chicago workers’ compensation lawyer can help establish that the injury arose out of employment, gather supporting evidence, and pursue benefits through the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission.
👉 Learn why legal representation matters:
How Much Does a Workers’ Comp Lawyer Cost in Illinois?
Frequently Asked Questions About Workplace Assaults and Workers’ Compensation
Can you receive workers’ compensation if you’re attacked at work in Illinois?
Yes. Injuries caused by workplace assaults may be compensable if they arise out of and occur in the course of employment.
Are attacks by customers or strangers covered by workers’ comp?
Often, yes. Third-party attacks can be covered when the employee was exposed to a work-related risk.
What if my workers’ comp claim is denied after an assault?
Denied assault claims can frequently be appealed with proper legal guidance and evidence.
Final Thoughts: Workplace Attacks Are Often Compensable Injuries
The Oswego Chick-fil-A stabbing is a tragic reminder that workplace injuries are not limited to slips, falls, or repetitive trauma. Violent attacks at work can cause devastating physical and emotional harm, and Illinois law recognizes that many of these injuries qualify for workers’ compensation benefits.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a workplace assault — whether as a delivery driver, restaurant worker, maintenance employee, or other on-the-job role — understanding your rights early can make a critical difference in your recovery and financial stability.
