Dolton officials discuss nightclub after weekend shooting

John Garcia Image
Monday, May 15, 2017
Dolton officials seek to close nightclub after shooting
Five people were shot May 14, 2017 at Club 1 in Dolton.

DOLTON, Ill. (WLS) -- Dolton village officials were scheduled to meet Monday night to discuss the fate of a nightclub where five people were shot and wounded this weekend.

Early Sunday, a fight broke out on the second floor inside Club 1 at the corner of Chicago Road and Washington Street. Four male victims were shot inside the club and another male victim was shot about 200 feet from the club, police said.

The club was at capacity when witnesses say an argument broke out, police said. Some witnesses said a gunman pulled a weapon from his girlfriend's purse and opened fire.

No one was charged Monday night, but Dolton Police Chief Robert Collins said he expects multiple people to be charged in connection.

Mayor Riley Rogers said the village has zero tolerance.

Police said that the club checks patrons for weapons at the entrance. It's unclear how the gun got past security. Witnesses said the gunman was shot outside as he tried to get away.

Several Dolton Trustees have called on the mayor, who doubles as the liquor commissioner, to pull the club's license.

"The club should be shut down and an immediate investigation by the Dolton Police department should take place," said Duane Mohammad, a Dolton trustee.

ABC7 has requested information about who holds those licenses from village officials. The club has been under new ownership since January.

Mayor Rogers admits the owners are political supporters of his....and says he wants to see the club remain open, but subject to more strict security measures.

"One of the things that legal counsel advised is to put a plan in place that is susceptible to myself and also the police chief in regards to security," Rogers said.

All five people who were shot remained hospitalized Monday.

Club remain closed until at least end of the week, under village ordinance.