Auto mechanics have one of the industry’s most challenging and essential jobs. Sadly, they are often faced with rude customers over the price or speed of service. However, one story out of Tennessee takes the cake because it involves a customer committing arson and sending threatening messages to the shop owner because his car wasen’t ready. 

Auto mechanics need grace when it comes to the speed of repairs 

No one wants to wait longer than they initially thought for auto mechanics to fix their vehicles. However, some responses to long wait times are unwarranted. According to WREG, Gordilla Auto Repair in southwest Memphis has seen two fires in the last two months. The first of the two happened in July, but the culprit has just now been arrested.  

Apparently, Anthony Ross went to the shop on July 30th to pick up his car. He had purchased the vehicle from someone, but it needed repairs before he could drive it. As is often the case with auto mechanics, the shop was swamped, and the car wasn’t ready to be driven away when he went to check on it. After learning this, Anthony slapped the owner of the shop and proceeded to go outside and set his minivan on fire. The son of the shop owner says, “We told him if you want to take the car, take the car. We don’t care. We never got paid for any repairs.”

Luckily, they were able to put out the fire. However, Anthony tried to hit the mechanic again before leaving the shop. At some point, Anthony sent the shop owner a picture of his wife entering their home. He said, along with the picture, “I know where you live.” Sadly, another fire occurred a month later, and they believe Anthony may have been involved. This time, eight vehicles were set ablaze. In total, the business sustained about $130,000.