DOTHAN, Ala. — A lawsuit filed by a Dothan woman against a local McDonald’s was dismissed on Tuesday, March 11, following a joint decision by both parties to drop the case. Sherry Head had alleged that the fast-food chain served her a cup of chemicals that caused severe damage to her throat, potentially requiring surgery. The lawsuit, which sought nearly $13 million in damages, was dismissed with prejudice, meaning Head will not be able to refile the case.
The incident in question occurred in December 2020 at the McDonald’s on Ross Clark Circle, near Montgomery Highway. According to Head, she had ordered a caramel macchiato, but after being told that the coffee machine was being cleaned, she was served a drink that she claimed contained the cleaning chemicals. Head reported that she asked for assistance, but the staff reportedly refused and slammed the drive-thru window in her face. She then called 911 and took herself to the emergency room, where she said staff members at the McDonald’s declined to show the chemicals used for cleaning the machine.
Head filed her lawsuit against McDonald’s, its local franchisee GCSC Enterprises LLC, and the Murphy Family. Despite the severe nature of her claims, including allegations of negligence and personal injury, the case has now been dismissed. Both sides agreed to bear their own court costs, but the terms of the dismissal, including any potential settlement, were not disclosed.
This ruling brings an end to the legal proceedings surrounding the case, leaving Head unable to resubmit her allegations.
