Bars, drinking and poor judgment can often lead to altercations. Bar fights are common, especially when emotions are high, during sporting events, Spring Break, or on an over-crowded Friday night. Violent crimes often take place in a public space where competing versions of the events make it difficult for officers to identify the individual responsible. In these cases, self-defense is often the only option. What if a bar fight turns deadly?
In a recent case, a Gulf Shores bar fight ended up with one person dead and now the local law enforcement agency is conducting an investigation, looking for answers and a culprit. Our Birmingham homicide defense attorneys know that these cases can be complicated. We also know that for individuals involved in bar fights, the events can seem a blur. Recalling witnesses and piecing together the series of events that led to a bar fight can also be hazy. For individuals under suspicion of a violent crime, especially a homicide, it is important to consult with an experienced advocate as soon as possible. Any bar fight case that ends in murder demands an even-handed analysis and defense for both sides.
According to reports, a fight broke out on a bar in Gulf Shores around 1:30 a.m. A witness called 911 and officers arrived on the scene in response to the disturbance, discovering that a fight had taken place in the parking lot of the bar. Witness statements indicated that the bar fight involved several people though the exact chain of events was difficult to uncover. When a bouncer intervened to protect a female who had continued to fight, her husband stabbed he bouncer. Witnesses said that another bouncer put the husband in a chokehold. At some point, the bouncers and the husband were out in the parking lot where he sustained a life-threatening head injury.
The husband who was allegedly responsible for stabbing the bouncer was transferred to the hospital in Pensacola. The 33-year-old was pronounced dead around 4:00 in the morning. While an autopsy will be conducted to determine the exact cause of death, officers involved in this case are trying to determine who is responsible and whether homicide charges can be filed. The bouncer who was stabbed refused medical treatment and has not yet been charged in the case.
As with any bar fight, piecing together the events and targeting a suspect can be difficult, especially when there are many individuals involved. In this case, there were two assailants–both injured, one dead. Though alcohol or being under the influence is never a defense for murder, it can shed light on the state of mind of those involved. It may also be important when weighing evidence of acting in self-defense. Sadly this is another case involving high emotions, late nights, and likely too much alcohol led to fatality. When involved in a bar fight, it is important to understand your rights as well as the potential charges you could face when the fight results in serious injury or death.
If you are facing criminal charges in Alabama, contact Alabama Criminal Lawyers at (205) 981-2450 or use our online contact form.