Exposes Pizzeria Attacker Sentenced to 17 Years

At a Glance

• Tyshaun Watson pleaded guilty to assaulting a Manhattan pizza manager.
• He received a 17-year prison sentence on Jan. 15, 2026.
• The attack, captured on security footage, involved a dog and left the victim in a medically induced coma for weeks.
• Why it matters: The case underscores the growing concern over violent incidents in restaurants and the legal consequences for attackers.

A video showing a 36-year-old man violently assaulting a pizzeria manager in Manhattan has led to a 17-year prison sentence for the attacker. The incident, which took place on Aug. 19, 2024, involved an unleashed dog and left the manager with severe brain injuries.

The Attack

The assault began after the manager told Tyshaun Watson twice that dogs were not allowed inside Roma Pizza, located at 146 Fifth Avenue. Watson, who had entered the restaurant with his dog, ordered food and sat down to eat. When the manager boxed the pizza for take-out, Watson became visibly angry.

In the security footage released by the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, Watson pushed behind the counter and began physically attacking the manager. He punched the man in the head, tackled him to the ground, and continued striking him while the dog bit the victim. An employee tried to intervene, but Watson swung at that worker as well.

The violence continued both inside and outside the restaurant. After the manager tried to flee and close the door, Watson forced it open, placed the man in a chokehold, and threw him to the ground. He kept punching while the dog bit him, then kicked the manager in the face, rendering him unresponsive, before punching him in the stomach and stomping on his face twice on the sidewalk.

Legal Proceedings

On Dec. 3, 2025, Watson pleaded guilty in New York State Supreme Court to two counts of first-degree assault. The plea agreement specified a sentence of 17 years in state prison followed by 5 years of post-release supervision.

The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, represented by Alvin L. Bragg Jr., issued a statement saying: “Tyshaun Watson is facing accountability for viciously attacking a pizzeria manager. This employee, who was just doing his job, suffered significant injuries and had to be placed in a medically induced coma for two weeks. No worker should ever have to fear for their safety, and my Office will prosecute those who harm them.”

Aftermath and Medical Response

The manager was rushed to Bellevue Hospital, where doctors treated him for bleeding in the brain, facial and skull fractures, multiple dog bite wounds, and a traumatic brain injury. He remained intubated and in a medically induced coma for approximately two weeks and spent about two months hospitalized.

After the assault, Watson walked back into the pizzeria and sat down with his dog until police arrived and arrested him at the scene.

Statements from Authorities

“The attack was brutal and unforgivable,” said the Manhattan District Attorney. “We will hold anyone who harms workers accountable.”

The DA’s office emphasized that no worker should ever feel unsafe in a workplace, and the case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of enforcing pet policies in restaurants.

Timeline of Events

Key Takeaways

• The attack was captured on security footage, making the case highly public.
• Watson’s plea and sentencing demonstrate the legal system’s response to violent workplace assaults.
• The victim’s prolonged medical care highlights the severe consequences of such violence.
• Enforcement of pet policies remains critical for restaurant safety.
• The case may prompt other establishments to review and reinforce their safety protocols.