Fox News Flash top headlines for May 3
Fox News Flash top headlines are here. Check out what's clicking on FoxNews.com.
Get all the latest news on coronavirus and more delivered daily to your inbox. Sign up here.
A city in Oklahoma has lifted a coronavirus mask requirement following reports of physical confrontations — and a threat of violence involving a gun -- at reopened stores and restaurants.
It happened Friday in Stillwater following the reopening of certain businesses forced to close to contain the spread of the virus.
OKLAHOMA MALL OPENS WITH SHOPPERS IN FACE MASKS AND SOCIAL DISTANCING
Stillwater, Oklahoma, Mayor Will Joyce (City of Stillwater)
“In the short time beginning on May 1, 2020, that face coverings have been required for entry into stores/restaurants, store employees have been threatened with physical violence and showered with verbal abuse," City Manager Norman McNickle said. “In addition, there has been one threat of violence using a firearm."
Now Stillwater said the mask requirement applies only to the employees of those establishments. A business owner can ask his or her customers to wear a mask. The original order was in effect only a few hours.
“I knew there would be some objections, but I did not expect physical confrontations with employees and threatening phone calls to city hall,” Stillwater Mayor Will Joyce tweeted. “I hate that our businesses and their employees had to deal with abuse today, and I apologize for putting them in that position.”
NASCAR STARS RACING AT OKLAHOMA TRACK THIS WEEKEND AS CORONAVIRUS RESTRICTIONS ARE EASED
“I am not the kind of person who backs down from bullies, but I also will not send someone else to fight the battle for me,” Joyce said. “I issued a revised order this afternoon to correct this problem, and we will continue to reevaluate our approach to face coverings.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE
McNickle said that many of those who objected “cite the mistaken belief the requirement is unconstitutional, and under their theory, one cannot be forced to wear a mask.”
He said no law or court supports that view.
College students create Pop Up Pantry to give back to Oklahoma community
Two college students and life-long neighbors create Pop Up Pantry, a place where customers can order essential food and pantry items, and then pick up the supplies in a contact-free, drive-through area in Oklahoma City.
“It is further distressing that these people, while exercising their believed rights, put others at risk,” he said. “As mentioned, there is clear medical evidence the face coverings prevent COVID-19 spread; they are recommended by both the CDC and the Oklahoma State Department of Health. The wearing of face coverings is little inconvenience to protect both the wearer and anyone with whom they have contact. And, an unprotected person who contracts the virus can infect their own loved ones and others."
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
Oklahoma has reported at least 3,851 coronavirus cases and 238 deaths.
True Crime
The hottest stories ripped from the headlines, from crime to courts, legal and scandal.
By entering your email and clicking the Subscribe button, you agree to the Fox News Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, and agree to receive content and promotional communications from Fox News. You understand that you can opt-out at any time.
