Authorities in Indiana are investigating a disturbing allegation involving a DoorDash driver accused of spraying pepper spray onto a family’s Arby’s order moments before delivering it. The incident, which unfolded in Vanderburgh County, has raised new questions about consumer safety and oversight within third-party food delivery services.
Mark Cardin told investigators that the delivery appeared routine until his wife sat down to eat. He said she took several bites before her breathing changed.
According to Cardin, she “started choking and gasping” and then vomited. The sudden reaction prompted him to inspect the packaging. Cardin said he noticed a residue on the bag that looked like “some kind of spray or something,” which led him to review their doorbell camera footage.
Cardin said the video showed the delivery driver standing on the porch and spraying something into the bag before leaving. He told authorities the tampering appeared deliberate and done only seconds before the driver walked away.
DoorDash Driver Accused Of Pepper-Spraying Woman’s Arby’s Order In Indiana
“The lady who dropped the food off had actually tampered with it on purpose for some reason,” he said.
The Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that detectives are reviewing the footage and gathering evidence. Investigators said the case could result in a charge of consumer product tampering, a Level 6 felony under Indiana law.
The offense carries potential prison time and fines if prosecutors determine the evidence supports filing charges. Authorities have not released the driver’s name and said they intend to complete their inquiry before forwarding the case to the county prosecutor.
The allegations have also renewed scrutiny of food delivery platforms such as DoorDash, which rely on independent contractors and maintain limited control over individual drivers. Consumer advocates note that the gig-based model complicates oversight and leaves customers vulnerable to misconduct that may occur outside company supervision.
Cardin said his wife recovered after the incident but added that the experience left him unsettled. He said the doorbell video clarified what happened and pushed him to contact law enforcement immediately. He hopes the investigation prompts stronger safeguards for consumers who depend on third-party delivery services for daily meals.
The sheriff’s office said the inquiry remains active as detectives work to determine the driver’s motive and whether criminal charges will follow.
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