California McDonald’s boss breaks silence after coworker scalded him with boiling hot oil: ‘One of the hardest things of my life’

The manager of a Northern California McDonald’s restaurant is lucky to be alive, speaking out for the first time since a coworker allegedly threw scorching hot oil on him after a shift.

Jacob Smith, 20, suffered third-degree burns to his face, neck, hands and shoulders after the alleged attack. He’s currently receiving specialized treatment at UC Davis Medical Center.

In a TikTok video, the fast food chain employee said he was “very, very thankful for everyone who’s supported” him after half of his body was scalded in the hot oil attack that scalded half of his body.

“It’s been very, very painful,” Smith said with bandages on his arms and neck from his hospital room.“Definitely, one of the hardest things of my life to get through.”

“But, I’m very thankful for everything and everyone blew up that GoFundMe.”

“I’m extremely blessed and I feel like one of the luckiest people on earth and I thank everyone for helping me feel that way. And just helping me get through this.”

Police said the attack happened May 30 when Smith’s co-worker, 23-year-old Jalani Bluett, allegedly threw the oil.

Following the incident, Bluett was reported missing before authorities located him days later and took him into custody, according to CBS News.

Smith’s mom, Amber Smith, started the fundraiser for her son that has nearly reached its goal of $200,000 to help with living expenses and medical costs while he is unable to work.

“At just 20 years old, Jacob has worked hard to build a future for himself,” Amber wrote. “He is engaged to be married and has always been responsible, hardworking, and committed to those he loves.”

“This unexpected tragedy has created a major setback at a time when he should be looking forward to building his life and planning his future.”

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“As his mother, it broke my heart when he looked at me and said, ‘Why would he do this to me?’ I want to help him not have to worry about day-to-day finances and how to make ends meet, but instead be able to focus on his recovery.”

The 20-year-old has undergone multiple surgeries following the attack, including a skin graft procedure.

Bluett was booked into the Sutter County Jail and is facing several charges, including battery causing serious bodily injury and assault with a deadly weapon. He is expected in Sutter Superior Court on Friday, per Sacramento Bee.

It is unclear at the time what led to the attack.

“Jacob has a long road ahead, but he is strong, and we know that with the support of family, friends, and our community, he can get through this difficult chapter,” Amber wrote, while thanking everyone for their support of her son.

The California Post reached out to the Yuba County Sheriff’s Office for more information.