Cookware company founder says Houston panhandler attacked her after she gave him $10

In Houston, Heida Thurlow, the founder of Chantal Cookware, was assaulted by a panhandler whom she had given money to, as reported by the Houston Police Department.

Thurlow recounted the incident, which occurred on October 20 while she was stopped at a red light on Westheimer Road at Stoney Brook Drive. She noticed a group of vagrants, one of whom appeared sick and elderly. Concerned, Thurlow rolled down her window and offered the man $10.

However, the situation took a violent turn when the panhandler demanded more money aggressively. Refusing to comply, Thurlow was shocked when the man reached into her car through the window and punched her in the stomach, snatching her wallet in the process.

Despite the alarming encounter, Thurlow expressed her anger rather than fear. She even contemplated retaliating physically. The assailant quickly used her credit card at gas stations, leading to his eventual arrest by the police, identified as Sammy Mayfield.

Reflecting on the incident, Thurlow shared that her children had advised her against giving money to panhandlers to avoid such situations in the future. She emphasized her commitment to their directive, aiming to prevent any further trouble.