Legal Analysis By Attorneys
Breaking Legal News
A shooting at South Side’s “Big Daddy’s” lounge on Cedar Avenue injured two people in Scranton, according to Lackawanna County District Attorney Brian Gallagher.
Gallagher confirmed that the two victims were expected to survive following the Scranton bar shooting at Big Daddy's.
Scranton police announced that two people have been arrested following the investigation.
In a media release from the Scranton Police Department, officials said members of the department’s Major Crimes Unit and Street Crimes Unit, along with the U.S. Marshals Service, executed an arrest warrant Thursday for 24-year-old Elijah Barcola of Scranton.
Police said Barcola was wanted in connection with the shooting at Big Daddy’s Bar and was facing warrants for attempted homicide and aggravated assault.
Investigators said Barcola was taken into custody without incident at the Skyview Apartments on Crown Circle Drive, where police allege he had been staying with his girlfriend, who was also arrested.
During a search of the apartment, Scranton police said officers recovered a stolen Glock Model 48 9mm handgun, ammunition, suspected marijuana, suspected psilocybin, packaging materials, multiple cell phones, a scale, and cash.
Authorities said some of the items were allegedly found inside a children’s bedroom.
Police said Barcola now faces additional charges, including possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, possession with intent to deliver controlled substances, receiving stolen property, endangering the welfare of children, and drug paraphernalia offenses.
The factual information above was sourced from fox56.com and wnep.com as of May 27, 2026.
The attorney commentary below is not specifically about the case reported above. Attorney commentary provided is information about these types of cases in the justice system.
In this interview, we spoke with experienced Pennsylvania crime victim lawyer Michael Haggard about the legal options available to victims injured in shootings outside bars—covering criminal-case participation, possible civil claims, evidence preservation, and practical steps victims can take as they work to secure compensation and protection.
Darla Medina (Editor): When someone is shot outside a bar in Pennsylvania, what legal options can they consider?
Michael Haggard (Pennsylvania Crime Victim Lawyer): There are a few paths. Many victims look at the criminal case—if charges are filed—because that can affect restitution, protective orders, and victim participation. Separately, victims may also have civil claims, depending on the facts and who may be responsible.
Medina: What civil claims might be available in a shooting outside a bar?
Haggard: It can include claims against the shooter and, in some situations, claims involving the bar or security if negligent conduct contributed to the incident. The specifics matter: prior problems, staffing, policy failures, or how the area was handled can all be relevant.
Medina: How do victims usually start when they want legal help?
Haggard: They should document everything they can—medical records, photos, incident details, witness names—and seek representation early. Timing can be critical for preserving evidence and meeting deadlines.
Medina: What outcomes can victims realistically pursue?
Haggard: Outcomes can include compensation for medical costs, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages, along with criminal-case related restitution efforts. It’s also important to focus on safety and support during the process, not just the court outcome.
Medina: For someone worried about costs, is there help?
Haggard: In many cases, victims can explore fee arrangements and victim support resources. An attorney can also assess eligibility for restitution-related avenues and other forms of financial recovery that may apply depending on the situation.
If you or a loved one was shot outside a bar, don’t navigate the aftermath alone. Contact our team for a free consultation so a Pennsylvania crime victim lawyer can review what happened, explain your options, and guide you on the next steps for medical recovery, compensation, and accountability.
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