Though rumors, allegations, and denials are, like the bottles, still flying, and fact has yet to be completely separated from fiction, here's what we do know about the infamous bar fight that happened two nights ago.
The parties involved included members of rapper Drake's entourage and R&B star Chris Brown's entourage.
Another 24 hours later, we know a lot more about the innocent bystanders and have witnesses coming forward, reports the New York Post.
We've covered the criminal implications, especially for Chris Brown's probation. However, we only mentioned in passing the possibility of civil liability.
Ingrid Gutierrez, 21, was sitting at Chris Brown's table throughout the night, reports the Post. According to Gutierrez, Brown sent over a bottle of "Ace of Spades" champagne. Drake reportedly sent a letter back that said, "I am f______ the love of your life."
For most people, that would have been enough to start a fight. However, Gutierrez told the Post that Brown, though upset, merely tossed the note on the ground. Later, Drake and another rapper, Meek Mill, approached the table and gave Brown the finger.
"Chris told Drake to [expletive] off and the next thing I could hear is the sound of smashed glass and mayhem started. Somebody in Drake's group - I don't think it was Drake - swung at Chris, but missed."
Chris Brown then tried to leave, but bottles were flying. One hit Chris in the face, inspiring yesterday's Twitter photo. Brown also tweeted "How u party with rich n---- that hate? Lol....Throwing bottles like girls? #shameonya!"
In the end, not only was Brown injured, but Gutierrez was hit as well. According to the Post, she plans to sue both the club and the bottle thrower.
In addition to those two, Brown's bodyguard suffered a massive head laceration and other bystanders were injured as well. One man, unrelated to the two stars' entourages, suffered a large laceration to the back of his neck. Another woman, according to the Post, got "12 stitches on her left arm - and a lawyer."
Those that tossed bottles, whether intended for their targets or not, would have pretty clear liability for battery. However, a suit against the club owner is questionable. Bottle service is a regular thing at clubs throughout the world. Unless there is evidence of substandard security, over serving, or other evidence of conduct that falls below the conduct of the reasonable club owner, it'll be hard to hold the club owner liable.
From all accounts, it seems like the fight was simply a product of two drunk men caught in a love triangle and not a case of a substandard club.
Related Resources:
- Find a New York Personal Injury Attorney (FindLaw)
- Standards of Care and the "Reasonable Person" (FindLaw's Learn About the Law)
- Ask A Question About Personal Injury Now (FindLaw Answers)
ShareThis
