A Georgia father of three was arrested after leaving his young children unattended at a McDonald’s while attending a nearby job interview, sparking debate and garnering financial support from the public.

Chris Louis, 24, allegedly walked with his three children from his apartment to the restaurant in Augusta just before 4:30 p.m. on March 22, according to The Augusta Press. His children—ages 1, 6, and 10—remained in the restaurant’s indoor play area while he briefly left and returned before heading off again, a concerned customer reported to police.

Richmond County Sheriff’s deputies arrived at the McDonald’s and found the children unharmed but alone. They remained in the store until their father returned just before 6:20 p.m., when police confronted him about leaving his children unattended in a public space.

Louis, who does not own a car, told officers he left his children at the restaurant because he didn’t want them walking back home while he attended the job interview. Authorities waited with him until the children’s mother arrived to take them home. Louis was subsequently arrested and charged with deprivation of a minor.

Public Reaction and Fundraising Efforts

News of Louis’ arrest quickly spread, catching the attention of former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Antonio Brown.

“Story caught me by surprise. A dad just trying to find a way to make money for his family. I know he shouldn’t just leave his kids, but some people don’t have the means for babysitting, etc.,” Brown wrote on GoFundMe.

Brown, who has six children himself, launched a fundraiser to support Louis, personally donating $1,000. The campaign, started late Tuesday night, raised over $28,000 within the first five hours toward a $50,000 goal.

“Chris was on the Pursuit of Happiness & sometimes ppl just need help,” Brown wrote on X (formerly Twitter), expressing hope to speak with Louis soon.

Divided Public Opinion

Louis’ arrest has sparked widespread debate online, with some condemning his decision while others sympathize with his circumstances.

“You simply can’t leave your kids like that, and I get how this happened. But there are plenty of questions,” one X user commented.

“Yeah, it’s a little iffy on the 1-year-old, but dude was trying to get a job. Give him a break,” another user wrote.

“I know it’s a desperate situation and brother made a mistake, but an understandable one. All he could think about was the hope of a job,” another person added.

“Dude was literally doing the best he could with what he has. I commend him for that, it’s not easy,” another comment read.

The case has reignited discussions on child care accessibility, economic struggles, and the legal consequences for parents in difficult financial situations. As the fundraiser continues to grow, many are hoping that Louis receives the support he needs to get back on his feet.