The Jacksonville Fire Marshal’s office has issued a cease-and-desist order to Chicago Pizza for an “unpermitted game room,” GLHF Game Bar. The building was also cited for multiple fire code violations, including blocked exits.
On Sunday, Madden competitor David “Bread” Katz killed two people and injured 10 others during a Madden Championship Series qualifying event at GLHF Game Bar. At least one other person was injured while fleeing the scene. The cease-and-desist order was first posted on Wednesday afternoon, according to News4 Jax.
Related: A negligence lawsuit will be filed on behalf of Jacksonville shooting survivors
Exclusive: Chicago Pizza shut down at Jacksonville Landing after gaming tournament shooting. Jax Fire Marshal found emergency exit was blocked at time of shooting, plans for gaming center were not submitted to city. City sources: big issue for people escaping. pic.twitter.com/3I6vwM8mCl
— Vic Micolucci (@VicMicolucci) August 29, 2018
Chicago Pizza was cited for “using strip plugs as permanent wiring” and “using extension cords as substitute for permanent wiring,” in addition to the citation for “blocking exits with video game machines and other objects.” News4 Jax sources said it was a “big issue for people escaping” during the shooting.
News4 Jax also reported that Chicago Pizza was given a warning for its noncompliance with regard to the floor plan, as well as a notification to stop “unpermitted use” of the game room.
Chicago Pizza and GLHF Game Bar owner Cliff Comastro released a statement earlier today expressing condolences to the victims of the event. “This was an isolated incident that occurred during a video gaming tournament being held at GLHF Game Bar for the EA Sports Madden NFL 19 franchise. “Our hearts are broken, but together, we hope to begin the healing process as a community here in Jacksonville.”
Dot Esports has reached out to GLHF Game Bar for more information.
Earlier in the week, Orlando-based law firm Morgan & Morgan announced it was filing a lawsuit on behalf of some Jacksonville shooting victims. Details of the suit were not immediately clear, but it seemed concerned with the lack of security at the event.
