The state Department of Consumer Protection says it issued a
"summary suspension" of the liquor permit because of a referral from
the Fairfield Police Department.
In a letter to the Consumer Protection Commissioner, Police
Chief Robert Kalamaras detailed the shooting that happened early Sunday
morning.
Police say it appears the restaurant converted into a
nightclub after hours.
In the letter, Kalamaras also described
several other incidents that police
responded to in recent months. Kalamaras said those incidents
included a person in a car bleeding from the mouth, college night events at
which minors were served alcohol, and an incident where a bouncer
pepper-sprayed patrons, which police determined was unjustified.
In the letter, Kalamaras went on to say, "Regardless of our
enforcement and our investigative efforts to address the quality of life issues
that the Wafu Asian Bistro has created, they have failed to take steps to
comply with Connecticut state liquor laws. Evidenced by violations in
succession within a six-month timeframe for serving alcohol to minors. The
business owners' failure to comply with laws and regulations has resulted in a
shooting and serious physical injury to a patron, which could have resulted in
a homicide. This agency is respectfully requesting a summary suspension of the
Wafu Asian Bistro liquor permit to allow for a complete review of all reports
and complaints related to this business."
Fairfield Health Department officials say Wafu Asian Bistro still
has its food license, but the food license is currently under review as the
Health Department is currently investigating the business.
The business has been closed since the shooting. A sign posted
on the door says it's closed Monday through Wednesday for
maintenance.
Meantime, the shooting suspect remains at large.
Police say the victim, who was released from the hospital, is
not cooperating with the investigation.
Police are asking anyone with information to come forward.
News 12 Connecticut
reached out to Wafu Asian Bistro and the property owner for comment but has
not heard back.