Boston Licensing Board Investigates Violent Incidents at Local Bars and Pizzerias
- Meeting Overview:
The Boston Licensing Board convened to address multiple incidents related to violence and alcohol regulation violations across several establishments, focusing on venues such as Loco Taqueria and Oyster Bar, Landmark Public House, and Tom English’s Tavern. The session revealed a concerning trend of altercations and regulatory breaches, prompting in-depth discussions and testimonies from involved parties.
A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing incidents at Loco Taqueria and Oyster Bar, where two separate events on consecutive nights in April 2026 raised concerns. The first incident involved an assault with a dangerous weapon on April 11, 2026. A victim, identified as Mr. Green, was found with a facial laceration after being punched by an unidentified assailant. Despite the efforts of the restaurant staff and the Boston Police Department, the suspect’s identity remains unknown. Video footage of the event was mentioned but not available during the meeting. The establishment’s attorney emphasized the staff’s cooperation with law enforcement, noting the unprovoked nature of the assault.
The following night, another incident at the same establishment involved a patron, Mrs. Chicone, who was found unresponsive due to alleged over-service of alcohol. Despite efforts to rouse her, she required medical intervention and was transported by ambulance. The establishment faced a citation for this violation. Again, the establishment’s representative highlighted the absence of evidence indicating whether Mrs. Chicone had consumed alcohol prior to arrival. The lack of video evidence was acknowledged, though staff notes based on video reviews were provided.
Attention then shifted to the Landmark Public House, which was involved in an altercation on March 15, 2026. Justin Ruiz, a patron, sustained severe injuries, including a traumatic brain injury and facial lacerations. Ruiz asserted that he was not aggressive nor asked to leave the establishment, contrary to the management’s claims. He urged the board to review the surveillance footage, though it was noted the exterior camera was not operational at the time. The establishment’s owner defended staff actions, citing efforts to manage unruly behavior from Ruiz and his brother. Despite differing accounts, the board agreed to review all available evidence before reaching a decision.
A separate altercation at Tom English’s Tavern on March 6, 2026, was also scrutinized. An argument involving a pool table dispute escalated into a physical confrontation outside the bar, where multiple individuals, including Matthew Molen, were reportedly stabbed. The suspect, identified as Jarrett, was seen brandishing a knife and threatening patrons. Despite the chaotic scene, bar staff were commended for their cooperation with police, emphasizing their training in de-escalation techniques.
The board also reviewed instances of regulatory violations, such as overcrowding and excessive alcohol service at venues like Jillian’s Billiards Club and Bill’s Bar. These establishments faced scrutiny for allowing patrons to exceed drink limits and for failing to manage crowd sizes effectively. Each case was taken under advisement, with the board planning to vote on these matters in a subsequent meeting.
Michelle Wu
Licensing Board Officials:
Liam Curran, Keeana Saxon, Kathleen Joyce, Daniel R. Green
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Meeting Type:
Licensing Board
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
06/16/2026
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Recording Published:
06/25/2026
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Duration:
91 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Suffolk County
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Towns:
Boston
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