In a shocking turn of events, a woman in Florida found an unlikely hero in Pizza Hut. Cheryl Treadway, a Highlands County resident, used her phone’s Pizza Hut app to order a pizza, but with a twist. She added a note to the order, pleading for help as she was being held hostage by her boyfriend.
The local Pizza Hut staff received the order and immediately sprang into action, calling the police to report the situation. The authorities arrived at Treadway’s home and arrested her boyfriend, Ethan Nickerson, who was holding her and her children at knifepoint.
This harrowing incident highlights the reality of domestic violence, which affects an estimated 4 million women each year. Treadway’s story is a testament to the resourcefulness and bravery of survivors, as well as the importance of community support.
The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence reports that 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have experienced physical violence at the hands of a current or former intimate partner. Treadway’s experience serves as a reminder that domestic violence can happen to anyone, and it’s crucial to be aware of the warning signs.
A chilling anti-domestic violence PSA that aired during the Super Bowl featured a woman ordering a pizza while secretly calling for help. This scenario played out in real life when a 911 operator received a similar call. The operator’s quick thinking and understanding of the situation helped save the caller’s life.
The National Domestic Violence Hotline offers resources and support for survivors, including a safety planning tool. This tool provides guidance on creating a plan to leave an abusive relationship, as well as information on legal rights and options.
Treadway’s story underscores the importance of being vigilant and responsive to cries for help. What if the Pizza Hut manager hadn’t called 911? What if the 911 operator hadn’t understood the caller’s message? These questions highlight the need for awareness and empathy in our communities.
