McLean Giant Worker Threatened After Asking Man To Wear Mask

MCLEAN, VA — A man is facing assault charges for his response after an employee asked him to wear a face mask inside the McLean Giant store Monday.

The incident happened at the 1454 Chain Bridge Road store around 12:58 p.m. Monday. According to police, the man threatened a Giant employee with a knife after the employee asked him to wear a mask inside. The man, identified as Thomas Devanney, 33, of McLean, reportedly stole an item from the store and fled.

Officers found Devanney nearby, leading him to throw a knife at officers and miss them. He was charged with two counts of assault and treated for minor injuries at a hospital. One officer was treated for a minor injury at the scene.

In Virginia, an executive order by Gov. Ralph Northam requires face masks at indoor public places, including retail stores. There are exemptions for young children or people with a health condition that keeps them from wearing a face covering. The policy has been in effect since May 29.