Skip to main content

Your local TABC

Sept 28, 2022

TABC arrests Galveston bar employee following crash that killed four

Man arrested on allegations of improper alcohol service to drunken driving suspect

GALVESTON — A Galveston bartender was arrested by agents of the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission on Monday after it was alleged he improperly served a person who was later identified by police as a suspect in a deadly August crash that left four people dead.

Gil Garcia, 58, was arrested by agents from TABC’s Target Responsibility for Alcohol-Connected Emergencies (TRACE) unit Sept. 26 and charged with selling alcohol to an intoxicated person. He was later booked into the Galveston County Jail. Garcia was identified as an employee of Gloria’s Lounge, 4126 Avenue S in Galveston.

According to TABC agents, Garcia was working as a bartender the night of Aug. 6 when a drunken driver collided with a golf cart and killed four passengers. The victims, ages 4, 14, 25 and 49, were members of a family visiting Galveston Island on vacation.

“This tragic case illustrates why it’s so important that alcohol retailers take steps to prevent sales to customers who show signs of intoxication,” TABC Executive Director Thomas Graham said. “Businesses can help prevent deadly crashes by following the law and educating employees on how to identify signs of intoxication. Businesses that are found to have contributed to serious injury or loss of life will be held accountable.”

Individuals convicted of selling alcohol to an intoxicated person could face a fine of not more than $500 and up to a year in jail. Businesses found in violation could face TABC administrative action, including a fine or a temporary suspension of their alcohol license or permit.

The criminal case remains under investigation by the Galveston Police Department and Galveston County District Attorney’s Office. A TABC administrative case against Gloria’s Lounge remains pending.

Media Contact:

Chris Porter

TABC Public Information Officer

(512) 206-3462

media@tabc.texas.gov