News Summary
David Hill, the owner of Play Bar & Grill, is contesting the city’s abrupt decision to close his venue following a shooting incident in the Flats area. He argues that his establishment should not be held accountable for violence outside its premises and cites concerns over potential racial bias in the closure. While city officials maintain that the closure was necessary for public safety, Hill is frustrated by the lack of communication about the decision. As the investigation unfolds, he plans to appeal and advocates for fair treatment of local businesses.
Cleveland – The owner of Play Bar & Grill, David Hill, has voiced his concerns following the city’s recent decision to shut down and board up his establishment. This action stemmed from a shooting incident in the Flats area on Sunday night, which resulted in six individuals suffering injuries. Law enforcement officials indicated that overcrowding both inside and outside the bar may have contributed to the violence.
Cleveland Police have confirmed that one of the suspects involved in the shooting, who also sustained injuries during the incident, has been arrested. In response, David Hill stressed that the bar should not be held responsible for the events that unfolded, claiming the shooters never entered his premises. He acknowledged that the bar was operating at full capacity but asserted that staff had reached out to the fire marshal for support in managing the crowd effectively.
Hill criticized the immediate decision by Mayor Justin Bibb to board up his bar, labeling it excessive. He further suggested that racial bias may play a role, stating that Play Bar & Grill is the only Black-owned business in the area. However, city officials, including Wayne Drummond, the director of public safety, have refuted claims of racial motivations, maintaining that the closure was a response to public safety concerns.
Law Director Mark Griffin acknowledged the establishment’s history of incidents, including a prior shooting, but argued that the recent emergency closure was necessary to ensure the safety of the community. Hill contested this assertion, pointing out that the prior shooting incident occurred nearly two months ago, and those involved never entered his bar.
The owner is frustrated with what he perceives as the city’s unfair targeting of his business, arguing that external violence should not be attributed to his establishment. Hill expressed his dissatisfaction over the lack of notification regarding the closure decision, as no official documentation was provided during the boarding process.
During a recent news conference, Cleveland Police Chief Annie Todd mentioned that the fire department had been active in dispersing crowds shortly before the gunfire erupted, yet she did not directly link the shooting to Play Bar & Grill. Hill emphasized that patrons were departing peacefully at the time of the incident, indicating there was no altercation or dispute connected to his business.
Hill plans to formally appeal the city’s decision to close the bar, aiming for a fair resolution. He is also concerned about the implications of the city’s actions for other businesses in Cleveland, worrying about potential abuse of governmental power affecting them.
In light of the shooting, Hill extended his condolences to those injured and expressed hope for a resolution that accurately reflects the circumstances surrounding the incident. Historical records reveal that Play Bar & Grill, originally known as Anejo Tequila Joint, has faced its share of challenges, including prior shooting incidents and violations linked to liquor permits dating back to 2019.
Cleveland police have reported over 300 crimes in the East Bank of the Flats area over the past year, which includes numerous felonious assaults and serious offenses. This alarming trend illustrates the ongoing struggles with public safety in the vibrant yet troubled area.
As the investigation continues, the community watches closely, hopeful that a balanced approach will prevail to ensure both public safety and the rightful operations of local businesses like Play Bar & Grill.
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Additional Resources
- WKYC
- News 5 Cleveland
- Cleveland.com
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mass Shooting
- Fox 8 News
- Google News: Play Bar and Grill shooting Cleveland
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