A bar owner in Ealing has been banned from entering his own venue due to allegations of violent behavior towards customers. Mr. Petrit Pergjergji is accused of assaulting two individuals, leaving them unconscious outside Stack Bar on The Mall in Ealing Broadway. The incident occurred on Thursday, September 19, 2024, when two men were asked to leave the bar by Mr. Pergjergji, who was also the designated premises supervisor at the time. One of the men reportedly became aggressive and refused to leave, leading to Mr. Pergjergji allegedly punching both men, knocking them unconscious with a single blow. After the altercation, Mr. Pergjergji closed the shutters of the bar, left through a fire exit, and did not call emergency services for the victims.
Legal representatives for the police and the premises provided statements during an Ealing Council licensing subcommittee meeting. Mr. Armin Solimani, representing the police, expressed concern over Mr. Pergjergji’s lack of regard for the victims’ well-being, while Mr. Ryan Dowding, representing the premises, mentioned that Mr. Pergjergji regrets not calling emergency services once he learned about the extent of the injuries. The two injured men were eventually found by a passerby who called for help, and they were taken to the hospital for treatment.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that they responded to the assault outside the bar, and the two men had non-life-threatening injuries. A man in his 40s, believed to be Mr. Pergjergji, was questioned under caution and released pending further investigation. The licensing subcommittee discussed potential actions, including suspending the bar’s license, but ultimately decided to ban Mr. Pergjergji from the premises until a final hearing concludes all investigations. Additionally, a new designated premises supervisor must be appointed, and the bar must follow amended licensing conditions, such as notifying the police of any incidents outside the premises and employing external, independent door supervisors.
The committee’s decision reflects the seriousness of the allegations against Mr. Pergjergji and the need to ensure the safety and well-being of patrons at Stack Bar. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible behavior in managing licensed venues and handling conflicts with customers. It also highlights the role of authorities in enforcing licensing regulations to maintain a safe environment for the public.
Moving forward, stakeholders in the hospitality industry, including bar owners, staff, and regulators, should prioritize training on conflict resolution, customer safety, and emergency response protocols. By promoting a culture of accountability and professionalism, incidents of violence and misconduct can be minimized, creating a more secure and welcoming environment for patrons. As the investigation into the allegations continues, it is crucial for all parties involved to cooperate fully and uphold the standards of ethical conduct in the service industry.
