Owners Of Fish Head Cantina Can Keep Their Liquor License
ARBUTUS, Md. (WJZ) -- There was a deadly stabbing at a Baltimore County bar; its liquor license is now on the line.
Monique Griego has more on the liquor board hearing for the Fish Head Cantina.
After two hours of testimony, the board decided to fine the bar but did not take away its liquor license.
The Fish Head Cantina was in danger of losing its liquor license after a bar fight ended with John Bowman, 22, being stabbed to death.
"I want someone to be held accountable," said his aunt, Priscilla Holdt.
Monday, Holdt made a plea to revoke the bar's license.
"I ask how many people have to die at this Cantina before someone is held accountable?" said Holdt.
Police arrested Shelby Mix and charged her husband, a rapper performing that night, as an accomplice. Police say while security stopped the fight inside that night, it spilled outside and got out of control.
Neighbors say it happens quite often.
"It's always nice in there and then late at night is when the trouble starts," said one neighbor.
But the Fish Head Cantina has its backers. Nearly 40 people showed up to speak in favor of the bar, including the president of the Arbutus Association.
"They believe that there should be a sanction but that Scott is a good community leader and should remain in business," said Terrence Nolan.
Nolan and other business leaders said the stabbing could have happened anywhere.
"I'm not sure that I heard any testimony today that you would have done differently," said an official.
The board decided the bar had already made adequate changes.
"How tragic to see nothing happening and no changes being made. It's kind of disheartening," said Holdt.
The bar was given the maximum fine of $2,000. The owner declined to comment on camera. This is the fourth time the Cantina has been called in front of the liquor board in just a year and a half.
The board did say that if the Fish Head Cantina had any additional violations, their license would be revoked.
