Saugus Restaurant Faces Liquor License Hearing Following Fatal Wrong-Way Crash
SAUGUS, MA — Tribu Mexican Kitchen and Bar is scheduled to appear before the Massachusetts Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission today at 1:30 p.m. amid allegations related to a deadly wrong-way crash on Route 1.
The crash, which occurred on May 6, resulted in the fatalities of Massachusetts State Police Trooper Kevin Trainor and the wrong-way driver, Hernan Ramon Marrero, 50, of Roslindale. Authorities reported that Marrero had been served nine alcoholic beverages over 3.5 hours at Tribu, following a complimentary drink at another establishment in Waltham.
According to the Essex County District Attorney's Office, Marrero's blood alcohol content was determined to be 0.192, more than double the legal limit. The investigation found that while criminal charges against Tribu were not viable, the restaurant allegedly violated civil regulations by serving drinks after hours and providing complimentary drinks.
The potential loss of Tribu's liquor license poses a serious threat to its operations, as liquor sales account for over 20% of total revenue, according to the National Restaurant Association.
Tribu's owner has not commented publicly, referring inquiries to legal counsel.