Photo: QueensPost
Sept. 15, 2010 By Christian Murray
The brawl that erupted at Casa Romana on August 28 began when one teenager stepped on another’s foot, according to this district’s police captain who spoke at Tuesday’s United Forties Civic Association’s monthly meeting.
Donald Powers, the new police captain at the 108 Precinct, said that the incident at Casa Romana (at 39-20 Queens Blvd.) unfolded into a free-for-all that led to five serious injuries. A 15-year-old girl was stabbed in chest, while a 16-year-old female was hit over the head with a chair, requiring six staples in her head. The other three partygoers suffered from similar injuries.
Powers confirmed that there were members of the Latin Kings at the “Teen Night” party. Furthermore, the police said 14 individuals were arrested, including the owners, who were charged with criminal nuisance. Two individuals were stabbed.
One Sunnyside resident who happened to be in the area shortly after the melee was robbed as the brawlers fled the scene, Powers said.
Powers said officers were forced to chase suspected criminals down the subway tracks at the 40th Street station, potentially putting their lives at risk. It was at this point a helicopter was brought in.
Powers said the Casa Romana incident was an anomaly. He said there are few problems at bars and restaurants in the neighborhood and most owners are very cooperative with the police.
The owners of the restaurant said they might re-open the restaurant, Powers said. The owners could not be reached for this article.
Councilman Jimmy Van Bramer, who spoke after Powers, told the audience that Casa Romana must be shut down, arguing that residents are currently at risk. He said that the police is on his side, but cannot officially say so, and he is getting support from Assemblywoman Cathy Nolan, who was also in attendance.
Photo: QueensPost
