Photo: Digital Vision
A white Pennsylvania man who went viral for a racist, threatening confrontation with a Black immigrant business owner is now under state and federal investigation, per Atlanta Black Star.
The confrontation occurred at a Walmart in Charleroi, Pennsylvania, where the man was caught on video approaching Augusta “Queenie” Goll, a Liberian immigrant and local grocery store owner. According to Goll, the man ambushed her while recording on his phone, addressed her by name, questioned her finances, and then launched into a racially charged tirade, repeatedly using slurs.
“I was shocked,” Goll told Pittsburgh’s Action News 4. “He just walked up to me like he knew me, and then it turned ugly very fast.”
In the viral video, Goll can be seen telling the man to get away from her and calling for security. Goll also warned another Black shopper nearby not to engage with him.
Days after the video spread online, Rostraver Township police referred the case to the Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Investigation Unit, with the FBI and Westmoreland County District Attorney’s Office also involved. State police confirmed on Monday (January 19) that the investigation remains active and that officers are conducting multiple interviews and gathering evidence.
Goll said the man later came to her grocery store and left an apology letter, seemingly believing that would resolve the situation. However, authorities moved forward after reviewing the footage and learning the man may have filmed similar confrontations with other immigrants, allegedly posting them online.
“I feel like he hates my success,” Goll said. “But my business helps the city. It creates jobs. It pays taxes.”
Authorities haven't announced charges in the case.
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