A local Corey B. Cookin Seafood & More owner says a heated social media exchange escalated into threats, vandalism, and destruction at his business overnight.
Restaurant Owner Shocked by Overnight Attack
Owner Corey Harris said he woke up to alarming messages informing him that his restaurant, located near Northeast 23rd Street and Bryant Avenue in Oklahoma City, had been vandalized.
When Harris arrived, he found the front glass door shattered and the word “racist” spray-painted across the building.
“It really was a surprise and it really was, I was in shock,” Harris said.
Argument Began on Facebook
According to Harris, the incident started Wednesday night after he received a Facebook message from someone accusing him of posting racist comments online.
“My response was I haven’t said anything racist. I have no idea what you’re talking about,” Harris explained.
The conversation continued through social media messages, and Harris said he remained willing to meet and discuss the accusations peacefully since his restaurant is open to the public.
However, Harris said the exchange quickly turned threatening.
Death Threats Allegedly Sent Before Vandalism
Harris said he later received multiple threatening Facebook calls and messages from the individual.
“After that, I received multiple Facebook phone calls with threats of my life,” Harris said. “I have screenshots of the person saying that he’s going to kill me and all this weird stuff.”
Harris left the restaurant around 11:30 p.m. Wednesday. Later, after hearing about the damage, he reviewed surveillance footage from the business.
Security Cameras Captured Suspect
According to Harris, security footage shows a man vandalizing the restaurant while partially covering his identity.
“He just felt the need to pick a fight or try to bully somebody for no reason,” Harris said. “One thing about me, I won’t be bullied.”
Authorities have not yet announced any arrests connected to the incident.
Community Support Brings Owner to Tears
Despite the hateful messages and destruction, Harris said the overwhelming support from the community deeply moved him.
Volunteers helped clean the graffiti from the building, while customers and supporters stopped by to encourage him.
One woman reportedly handed Harris $125 while offering words of support, an act that brought the restaurant owner to tears.
“That didn’t make me cry, this made me cry,” Harris said while describing the community kindness.
Restaurant Owner Offers Forgiveness
Even after the vandalism and threats, Harris said he forgives the person responsible.
“I just want to say, whoever did this, I forgive you, but you need to get right with God,” he added.
Summary Table
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Business Targeted | Corey B. Cookin Seafood & More |
| Location | Northeast 23rd Street and Bryant, Oklahoma City |
| Incident | Vandalism and threats |
| Damage Reported | Broken front door glass, graffiti |
| Cause of Conflict | Facebook argument over alleged racist posts |
| Evidence | Surveillance video and screenshots |
| Owner | Corey Harris |
| Community Response | Donations and cleanup support |
The vandalism at Corey B. Cookin Seafood & More has highlighted how quickly online disputes can escalate into real-world violence and intimidation. Despite the threats and destruction, Corey Harris says the support from the Oklahoma City community has helped him remain strong and focused on moving forward.
