Escobar
A popular Beaumont nightspot asserts that independent contractors were acting in self-defense while escorting plaintiff Jesus Ramirez off the premises.
Ramirez filed suit against the owners of Star Bar, Nimitz & Pena Business Ventures, on Jan. 11 in Jefferson County District Court, alleging Star Bar employees should have escorted him off premises in a "safe manner."
Court records show that Star Bar answered the suit on March 9, asserting "independent contractors acted in self-defense ... during the altercation with plaintiff."
The answer also maintains the incident was a "cause-in-fact" occurrence, and that Ramirez's injuries were caused by his own negligence and/or unlawful conduct.
Star Bar claims it is not liable for independent contractors going beyond the scope of their employment and is asking that the plaintiff take nothing.
According to the lawsuit, on Oct. 27 Ramirez was at the Crockett Street bar when he "sustained personal injuries due to the negligence of the defendant."
Ramirez's suit fails to state how he was injured, but does allege Star Bar failed to properly train and supervise its employees and instruct them on how to escort him from the premises in a safe manner.
He is suing for his alleged past and future medical expenses, mental anguish, pain, impairment and lost wages, plus all court costs.
Attorney Chris Portner of the Beaumont law firm Portner Bond represents him.
Attorney David Escobar of the Houston law firm Lorance & Thompson represents Star Bar.
Judge Gary Sanderson, 6oth District Court, is assigned to the case.
Case No. B191-653