According to WKBW, authorities were dispatched to the GFY Bar and Grill located at 1866 Colvin Blvd, Tonawanda, NY 14150 late Sunday night in response to a reported stabbing.
The incident unfolded at approximately 11:40 p.m. as a result of a physical altercation between two men, ultimately leaving a 29-year-old man with a stab wound to the chest. Thankfully, the victim's injuries were deemed non-fatal, and he received immediate medical attention from on-site paramedics. Subsequently, he was transported to Erie County Medical Center (ECMC) for further treatment and care. The quick response of emergency personnel played a crucial role in ensuring the victim's safety and preventing the situation from escalating further.
Meanwhile, Zachary Meer, the alleged assailant, reportedly fled the scene following the incident. However, he turned himself in on Monday morning, taking responsibility for his actions. Meer was then arraigned at the Town of Tonawanda Justice Court on charges of first-degree attempted assault and fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon.
Attorney contributor Laurence Banville is an experienced violent crimes attorney in New York. Laurence recently discussed when victims might be entitled to compensation for a bar-stabbing injury or death.
"As an attorney with years of experience in bar stabbing and shooting cases, I feel compelled to address the issue of bar stabbings to shed light on the legal rights of the victims injured or killed. Bar-related violence is a tragic occurrence that can leave individuals physically and emotionally scarred for life. It is important to understand the potential liability and legal recourse available to victims in such situations.
First and foremost, it's crucial to establish that the responsibility for maintaining a safe environment lies with the bar owner or manager. They have a duty to take reasonable steps to prevent violence and ensure the safety of their patrons. This duty includes providing adequate security measures, such as hiring trained bouncers, installing security cameras, and implementing effective crowd control strategies.
When a bar owner or manager neglects this duty and a stabbing incident occur, they can potentially be held liable for the injuries suffered by the victims. To establish a successful claim, the victim must demonstrate that the bar owner or manager was aware or should have been aware of the potential for violence and failed to take reasonable steps to prevent it. This can be challenging, as it requires gathering evidence such as prior incidents of violence at the establishment or inadequate security measures.
Additionally, it's important to note that the person who committed the stabbing can also be held legally responsible for their actions. Criminal charges may be brought against the assailant, but this does not directly compensate the victim for their injuries and losses. Therefore, pursuing a civil lawsuit against the responsible party, including the bar owner or manager, can provide the victim with a means to seek compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages.
Each case is unique, and the specific circumstances surrounding the incident will play a significant role in determining liability and the legal rights of the victims. It is crucial for individuals affected by bar stabbings to seek legal counsel as soon as possible. An experienced personal injury attorney can thoroughly evaluate the case, gather evidence, and advocate for the victim's rights to obtain the compensation they deserve."