Bikini Beans Coffee is facing backlash and support after a tragic incident involving one of its customers, Nautica Malone, who died following a controversial encounter at their Tempe, Arizona drive-thru.
The incident, which quickly went viral, has sparked intense reactions across social media platforms.
Malone, 27, was filmed by a manager at the coffee shop while he was at the drive-thru window, allegedly engaging in inappropriate behavior while not wearing pants.
The video, shared widely on social media, garnered millions of views, leading to accusations of misconduct against Malone.
In the wake of the viral video, Malone reportedly drove to Goodyear, Arizona, and tragically took his own life on January 11. His family, according to reports, later visited the coffee shop, accusing the staff of contributing to his suicide.
Bikini Beans Coffee responded to the situation, sharing a statement on X (formerly Twitter) expressing condolences to the family. The coffee chain emphasized that the safety of their employees is a top priority, noting that the actions of the customer were criminal in nature. The statement reads:
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the individual involved during this difficult time. This was an unfortunate and tragic situation. As a company, the safety of our employees is always our top priority. In this case, an individual chose to commit a crime at one of our locations. We take incidents like this very seriously and remain committed to protecting our team and maintaining a safe and respectful environment. Thank you for your continued support.”
— Bikini Beans Coffee (@BikiniBeans) January 15, 2025
On social media, reactions were mixed. Some users expressed disbelief at Malone’s actions, arguing that his behavior was unacceptable, even in the context of the drive-thru setting. Others voiced concern over the sharing of the video, stating that not everything needs to be broadcast on social media.
Sorry your employees had to be harassed. The woman filming did nothing wrong and should not be held responsible. Sad for his family but he made his decision.
— šā¬ (@tzuluvie) January 16, 2025
The fact that she wasn't caught off guard and didnt even act surprised Tells me he likely did this to them before. Its Ironic Nautica Malone committed suicide because now even more people know about it
— Byron (@1ByronWileyAmy1) January 15, 2025
I hope the lady doesn't feel guilty since she did what she was supposed to do! https://t.co/sXtN4P6kzK
One commenter argued, "You literally cannot just pull up naked. Anywhere. Not even a swingers club," while another pointed out, "Bikinis don’t mean sexual assault is welcome." Despite the mixed sentiments, many users agreed that the coffee shop employees handled the situation professionally and appropriately.
Nautica Malone is clearly a fucking sexual deviant. May he rot in hell
— kb . šš (@upperclassher) January 14, 2025
Bikini bean is basically coffee Hooters. This guy intentionally drove up pantsless to a coffee drive thru where the gimmick is women in bikinis. His intention was clear https://t.co/j0eRW2L6hp
— Mawce (@ItzMawce) January 16, 2025
Whose idea was it to start an establishment where bikini clad women serve you coffee? You're literally begging for weirdos to show up. https://t.co/TOMES1P49Z
— Sky Blu Ian (@DareToBlu) January 12, 2025
While the incident remains tragic, it has sparked ongoing discussions about privacy, appropriate behavior, and the role of social media in publicizing sensitive events.
i’ll say it again. Bikini Beans Coffee shouldn’t exist. JUSTICE for Nautica Malone. he’s a victim of the excessive sexual culture rot we live in today. yes, he was gross, but the actions the place does is why he was gross. we don’t blame the druggies, we blame the dealers. hoes pic.twitter.com/CsyVd105Xq
— Javier Aliaga (@javieraliaga_) January 16, 2025
RIP to Nautica Malone here is my unpopular opinion about his tragic death. I’ve been preaching for years about men practicing sexual discipline. This could’ve been avoided. pic.twitter.com/vmWdJoK6FQ
— YN Supreme (@djsupreme) January 15, 2025
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