TABC issues emergency order suspending Fort Worth bar’s permit following two deadly shootings

AUSTIN — The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission has issued an emergency order suspending the liquor permit of a Fort Worth bar for 60 days following multiple deadly shootings that left two people dead.

El Gallito Copeton Night Club, located on 3202 N. Main Street in Fort Worth, was served with the 60-day emergency order by TABC on May 21. The suspension will remain in place for 60 days effective immediately, and the bar may not sell or serve alcohol during the suspension. A hearing to affirm, amend, or set aside the order will be held with the State Office of Administrative Hearings on May 31.

The first shooting occurred at the business on May 12, resulting in the death of one man. One week later on May 19, a second man was shot and killed on the premises. The bar holds a Mixed Beverage Permit (MB) and Late Hours Certificate (LH).

Section 11.614 of the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code authorizes TABC to suspend a business’s license or permit for up to 90 days if it’s believed that the business’s continued operation could pose a risk to public safety.

“TABC has a responsibility to ensure that its licensed and permitted businesses have no role in causing threats to public safety,” TABC Executive Director Thomas Graham said. “This emergency order of suspension will help prevent additional risks to public safety from occurring at the business while investigators continue their work on this case.”

The case remains under investigation by TABC and the Fort Worth Police Department.

MEDIA CONTACT: Juan Rodriguez

TABC Communications 

media@tabc.texas.gov