COLUMBUS, Ohio — City officials filed a motion of contempt seeking the closure of a Columbus nightclub that has a history of shooting, fights and violent crime.
Since Jan. 1, 2023, Columbus City Attorney Zach Klein’s office says the Columbus Division of Police has received approximately 28 calls for service at the property, including multiple fights and two shootings.
Just two months ago, two security guards were shot and killed while working outside of Avalon Club, located at 205 N. 5th St. Police said at the time of the shooting that they believed it may have stemmed from an altercation inside the nightclub.
Other recent instances of violence include patrons being assaulted by a bouncer employed by the nightclub, shots being fired in the area with casings found in the parking lot and two assaults in June 2024.
“We want Columbus to have a vibrant nightlife, but it needs to be safe,” said Klein. “The shootings and violent crime we’ve seen at this property are unacceptable. If the Court agrees, we’ll be able to shut it down and bring some relief to nearby residents and families. No one should have to deal with that kind of violence in their neighborhood.”
The city now alleges multiple violations of court orders, including failure to employ property licensed security.
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