Woman Allegedly Pepper-Sprays Child, Seven Other Victims on a San Antonio Riverwalk Barge

According to a News4SanAntonio report, a woman is accused of pepper-spraying multiple people — including a child — during a disturbing incident on a Riverwalk barge.¹

Police said the altercation happened around 8:35 p.m. on Saturday, November 15th, aboard a Go Rio boat tour. The woman reportedly became upset after a boat operator asked her to lower the volume on her phone. A viral TikTok captured her yelling at other passengers before she exited the boat.

Witnesses told police that after leaving, the woman walked onto a nearby bridge and sprayed pepper spray down onto the barge, striking eight people, including a young child.

The suspect’s identity has not been released, and the investigation is ongoing.

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Did You Know?

Older children and young adults make up the largest percentage of pepper spray injury victims in the U.S., according to national injury surveillance data.²

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Can You Sue if You’re Attacked With Pepper Spray?

Pepper spray is meant to be a self-defense tool — but when it’s used irresponsibly or maliciously, it can cause real harm. Victims often experience intense burning, eye injuries, respiratory distress, and even long-term damage. The Riverwalk incident shows how quickly a public altercation can turn dangerous when someone misuses this kind of weapon.

When Pepper Spray Use Becomes a Crime

In Texas, using pepper spray on another person without justification can count as assault. While it’s legal to carry for personal protection, it can only be used in self-defense or defense of others. If someone uses it recklessly — for instance, out of anger or retaliation — it may lead to criminal charges for assault or injury to a child, depending on the circumstances.

In cases like this Riverwalk attack, the suspect could face multiple charges since several victims — including a child — were reportedly sprayed.

Can Victims File a Lawsuit?

Yes. Even if the suspect faces criminal charges, victims can also pursue a civil claim to recover compensation for their injuries. This can include:

• Medical bills for emergency care, eye treatment, or respiratory complications

• Pain and suffering from physical and emotional trauma

• Lost income if symptoms prevent someone from returning to work

In some cases, victims may also pursue punitive damages, which are meant to punish extremely reckless or intentional behavior.

If the attack happened on a commercial property — such as a business or tour operator — and it’s found that staff or security failed to respond appropriately, the company might also share premises liability for inadequate safety measures.

What To Do if You’re Sprayed

If you’re ever sprayed with pepper spray:

1. Move away from the area immediately and get to fresh air.

2. Avoid rubbing your eyes or skin, which can spread the chemical.

3. Rinse thoroughly with cool water for at least 15 minutes.

4. Seek medical care, especially if you experience trouble breathing or vision problems.

5. Report the incident to law enforcement and document your injuries.

These steps can help preserve evidence if you decide to pursue legal action later.

Pepper Spray Injury? Call Shaw.

An unprovoked attack can leave victims in pain, frightened, and unsure of what to do next. Whether the assault happened on public property or during a commercial activity, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Emergency Treatment

• Medical Bills

• Lost Wages

• Pain and Suffering

• Property Damage

• And More

We can help you find out for free.

Call Carabin Shaw at 800-862-1260 today or use our live chat to schedule your free case evaluation with an experienced personal injury attorney.
No fees. No pressure. Just expert legal advice when you need it most.

Carabin Shaw has been a trusted name in San Antonio and across Texas for over 32 years because we put our clients first.

We look forward to serving you.

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¹News4SanAntonio Report

²National Study on Pepper Spray Injuries