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Court documents have revealed additional details about the shocking incident that unfolded on Friday afternoon at an Utz plant in Conewago Township. The incident involved a former employee who was fired and subsequently entered the factory armed with a machete.

The suspect, identified as 25-year-old Christopher Apgar from Hanover, has been charged with several felony counts, including terroristic threats, criminal trespass, and aggravated assault. He also faces misdemeanor charges of simple assault, reckless endangerment, and disorderly conduct. Apgar remains in Adams County Prison, unable to post $50,000 bail, awaiting trial.

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Chaos Unfolds at Utz Plant

According to an affidavit of probable cause filed by Conewago Township police, officers responded to a distress call at the factory located at 101 Kindig Lane at 12:58 p.m. on Friday. The call reported an employee attacking their boss with a knife.

Upon arrival, Conewago Police Sgt. Kevin O’Brien was directed to the packaging department, where he found several employees restraining Apgar, the alleged assailant.

Apgar was apprehended by O’Brien and appeared to be disoriented and sweating profusely. When questioned about his condition, Apgar confessed to consuming cough syrup prior to entering the factory.

Police Chief Gary Baumgardner stated that Apgar, a temporary employee who had been terminated, visited the factory to express his affection for a former coworker.

Violent Confrontation Unfolds

The affidavit reveals that Apgar approached a 20-year-old woman in the packaging area, grabbing her hips while professing his love for her. The woman rejected his advances, prompting other employees to intervene and protect her.

During the confrontation, the female coworker was visibly frightened and in tears, according to the police.

Scott Roberts, the 52-year-old plant manager, was alerted by employees who had seen Apgar with a machete sticking out of his backpack. Roberts confronted Apgar and a physical struggle ensued.

In the midst of the struggle, Roberts managed to disarm Apgar, but not without sustaining injuries to his hands. Fortunately, other employees quickly joined the effort, assisting Roberts in subduing Apgar.

Swift Response Prevents Tragedy

Baumgardner emphasized the heroic actions of the plant manager and the prompt arrival of law enforcement officers, which ultimately prevented any casualties. Approximately 30 employees were present in the packaging area during the incident, highlighting the potential for a far more severe outcome.

Following the incident, Apgar was taken to Hanover Hospital for evaluation and then transferred to Adams County Prison. Meanwhile, Roberts, who received medical attention from EMS, did not require hospitalization for his injuries.

According to the documents, Apgar had been terminated from his position two days prior to the incident due to his failure to report to work.

A preliminary hearing for Apgar is scheduled for December 20. Normal operations at the factory were temporarily halted during the incident and ensuing investigation.

An Utz spokesperson confirmed that a former employee had gained access to the facility. However, the situation was swiftly addressed, and no injuries were reported.

“Utz Quality Foods prioritizes employee safety, and this incident was resolved quickly and without harm,” said Utz spokesperson Kevin Brick.

Harrison Jones is the reporter covering Hanover for The Evening Sun. Contact him at hjones@gannett.com