Lawsuit Filed Against City and Business Over Man Killed at West Greenville Bar
In a tragic turn of events in West Greenville, a family is holding the city, the business owner, and the bar where a man was shot and killed last year accountable. A lawsuit has been filed claiming wrongful death, inciting a significant development as the city, and local businesses grapple with the fallout of violent incidents.
Unfortunate Incident & Parties Involved
Red Kulture LLC, operating as Red @ 28th, is the spotlighted bar where the crime took place. The establishment is a notable hookah lounge and bar owned by Darren Vincent. Circa 70 LLC, the official owner of the building where Red @ 28th held its operations, is also named in the suit. The plaintiffs are actively seeking a jury trial in this matter.
The incident, as narrated in the lawsuit, occurred on the evening of November 26 when 38-year-old Keyon Robinson visited Red @ 28th. He was tragically fatally shot in an event linked to two men, Michael Range and Dyquan Sweeney, who are now facing charges of murder and possession of a weapon intended for use in a violent crime.
Allegations Against Red @ 28th
In addition to the crime, the lawsuit further alleges a lapse in Red @ 28th’s liability insurance coverage from August 2022 until the closing of the bar after the crime. This lapse is a direct violation of city code and ordinances. The Robinson family’s legal counsel, Greenville-based attorney, Ryan James expressed their intent to seek “maximum damages under law and policy.”
The City’s Role & Red @ 28th’s Response
The lawsuit also implicates the city of Greenville for failing to take action against Red @ 28th for its known violations until five days after the shooting incident. The city, under fire for its apparent lack of action, proceeded to cite Red @ 28th for zoning and occupancy violations, promptly revoking its conditional use zoning permit and Certificate of Occupancy Permit on December 1, 2021.
Red @ 28th, capturing the attention of the city and patrons alike, posted a poignant Facebook message the day following the shooting expressing their devastation and determination to overcome the tragedy. They mentioned their commitment to preventing violent crimes and maintaining a safe space for their patrons. No comments have been received from Red @ 28th in response to the fresh allegations and subsequent lawsuit.
Landlord & Security Implications
According to the lawsuit, the building owner, Circa 70, is considered accountable for the use of the property and supervision of the tenant conducting business there. The lawsuit points the finger at Circa 70 for not overseeing its tenant’s operations, claiming the landlord should have been aware of Red @ 28th’s insurance lapse and the contravention of city codes and ordinances.
Allegations of negligence extend to the security officers employed by Red @ 28th. The lawsuit argues that employees and security officers were underqualified and improperly supervised, thus critically jeopardizing patron safety.
The Way Forward
An emphasis on preventive measures and adherence to city codes and regulations are apparent potential solutions advanced by attorney, Ryan James, for avoiding such tragic incidents in the future. This grave incident, with all its ensuing legal turmoil, is glaring proof that stricter control and supervision are needed to ensure the safety of patrons in all establishments operating within the city boundaries.