Dandrea Johnson Arrested After Sucker Punching Aldi Shopper with Service Dog in Lauderdale Lakes, Leaving Victim in Coma [VIDEO]

LAUDERDALE LAKES, Fla. — Florida authorities have arrested Dandrea Johnson, 45, accused of sucker punching an Aldi shopper accompanied by a service dog, leaving the man in a coma.

The violent attack occurred on October 11 outside the Aldi grocery store at 3301 North State Road 7 in Lauderdale Lakes, around 7:20 p.m., according to the Broward Sheriff’s Office.

Investigators say the confrontation began inside the store, where Johnson allegedly argued with the victim—possibly about the presence of the man’s service dog. Surveillance footage reportedly shows Johnson waiting outside the store’s entrance before ambushing the shopper as he exited with his dog.

Video from the scene captures the moment Johnson punched the man in the face without warning, causing the victim to fall backward and strike his head on the ground. The impact left him unconscious and in a coma.

Dandrea Johnson Arrested After Sucker Punching Aldi Shopper with Service Dog in Lauderdale Lakes, Leaving Victim in Coma

Authorities launched a manhunt following the attack, releasing surveillance images and offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to Johnson’s arrest. He was taken into custody on October 22 after a Crime Stoppers tip led deputies to his location.

Johnson is charged with felony battery causing great bodily harm, permanent disability, or permanent disfigurement, the sheriff’s office confirmed.

During a bond court appearance on Thursday, Johnson’s defense claimed he acted in self-defense, alleging that the victim’s dog had been “aggressive.” Prosecutors disputed that claim, arguing the evidence shows no indication of self-defense.

“Mr. Johnson left Aldi first and stayed near the entrance,” prosecutors said. “When the victim exited, he didn’t approach Mr. Johnson. Mr. Johnson sucker punched him, and now he’s in a coma.”

The victim—described by relatives as a father and grandfather—remains in critical condition.

Dandrea Johnson is currently being held at the Broward County Jail on a $100,000 bond, according to jail records.