by Woodstock, Illinois — A suburban Chicago man is facing multiple felony charges after authorities say he brutally attacked a gas station clerk and attempted to ignite a gas pump when his request for a job application was denied.
Prosecutors describe the incident as unprovoked and violent, leaving the victim with serious injuries and narrowly avoiding a potentially deadly explosion.
Job inquiry turns violent inside Woodstock gas station
According to authorities, the incident occurred on the morning of Dec. 31 at a Shell gas station located at 110 North Eastwood Drive in Woodstock.
Police say 29-year-old Austin Silverman entered the store and asked a clerk for a job application. When the clerk declined his request, Silverman allegedly became enraged.
Officials say Silverman then went behind the counter and launched a violent assault, repeatedly punching and kicking the clerk.
Clerk suffers severe injuries in brutal assault
During the attack, the clerk sustained serious injuries to her face, ribs, and arms, authorities said. The beating only stopped when Silverman suddenly exited the store.
Once he left, the clerk was able to lock the door, temporarily preventing him from re-entering.
Suspect allegedly attempts to blow up gas station
While outside, authorities say Silverman attempted to ignite a gas pump by pressing a lit cigarette into it, an act that prosecutors say amounted to an attempt to blow up the gas station.
The attempt was unsuccessful. Moments later, Silverman allegedly tried to re-enter the store, but the clerk remained secured inside.
Surveillance footage leads to arrest
Responding officers reviewed surveillance video from the gas station, which helped them identify Silverman as the suspect.
He was taken into custody and charged with:
- Attempted first-degree murder
- Aggravated battery in a public place
Judge orders suspect held without release
During a court hearing on Friday, a judge ordered Silverman to remain in custody pending trial, citing the severity of the alleged crimes.
Randi Freese, the McHenry County State’s Attorney, strongly condemned the attack.
“This was a brutal, heinous, and unprovoked attack on a defenseless woman,” Freese said. “We are pleased that our petition to detain this dangerous defendant was granted and that he will remain in custody pending the outcome of these charges.”
Next court date set for January 7
Silverman’s next court appearance is scheduled for Jan. 7, where prosecutors are expected to outline the case against him in greater detail.
Read Also: Colorado Hiker Dies in Suspected Mountain Lion Encounter, First in 25 Years
Authorities have not released information about whether the clerk remains hospitalized, but officials say she is recovering from significant physical trauma.
Community shaken by near-disaster
Law enforcement officials say the incident could have ended far worse had the gas pump ignited, potentially putting employees, customers, and nearby residents at serious risk.
The case has raised renewed concerns about workplace violence, particularly against retail and service workers who regularly interact with the public.
Have you witnessed or experienced violence at work? Share your thoughts in the comments and join the discussion on how communities can better protect frontline workers.
