MARINE CITY, Mich. – Nearly a week after a confrontation left one of its owners pepper‑sprayed and its doors closed, Zimmerman’s Meat Market in Marine City has reopened.
Drawing an outpouring of support from customers.
The market shut down after an argument involving one of the owners, Sarah Hoover’s father, and a man who claimed to be part of a group defending First Amendment rights.
During the dispute, the man pepper‑sprayed Hoover’s father.
Local 4 reached out to St. Clair County Prosecuting Attorney Michael Wendling last week and learned prosecutors charged the man with unlawful use of a chemical device, a two‑year misdemeanor.
Hoover said the incident and its aftermath led to the temporary closure.
“We’ve received hundreds, maybe thousands, of death threats,” Hoover said. “It’s been scary.”
On Monday (Jan. 12), however, customers once again filed into the business and staff wrapped orders of meat and rang up purchases.
Many said they came not just to shop, but to show support.
“If you need any support, you’ve got it right here in Marine City,” said R.T., a customer.
Hoover said learning that prosecutors had charged the man accused of using pepper spray helped her feel secure enough to reopen.
“It makes my heart so happy, and I got so many hugs from so many wonderful people and so many nice, pleasant calls and texts,” Hoover said. “I just love these people.”
R.T. said he had been eager to thank the family in person.
“I’ve been dying to come and tell them God bless them for staying open instead of closing like they originally wanted to,” R.T. said.
R.T. and other customers said a permanent closure would have been a blow to the area.
Hoover said the store’s future is still uncertain, and they’re taking it day by day.
Any major announcements regarding their closure or staying open will be made on their social media page.