Stabbing Incident in Fresno’s Tower District Injures Two, Police Report

In a disturbing incident in Fresno’s Tower District, two individuals sustained injuries from a stabbing just after the New Year celebrations. The event occurred outside Bobby Salazar’s Taqueria shortly before 1 AM on Thursday, prompting a swift response from Fresno Police.

Details of the Stabbing Incident

According to police reports, the altercation began inside the restaurant and escalated onto the sidewalk. A witness described how she and her boyfriend, who turned out to be one of the victims, were exiting the establishment when a chance encounter led to a confrontation.

• Victim 1: Suffered stab wounds to the left shoulder and hip.
• Victim 2: Sustained two lacerations to the torso.

The police investigation indicates that the fight started due to an accidental bump between the victims and another patron. This disagreement quickly transformed into physical violence inside the restaurant, with one individual punching the victim before the situation worsened outside.

Manager’s Response

Daron Dabritz, the manager of Bobby Salazar’s, emphasized that the restaurant was not involved in the fight. He stated, “Whatever happened outside of here had nothing to do with us.” His comments reflect a desire to distance the restaurant from the violence that transpired nearby.

David Cortina, General Manager of Splash Fresno, echoed this sentiment. He noted that the perception of the restaurant’s logo being visible could lead to misunderstandings about the location of the incident.

Investigation Status

Fresno Police reported that the two victims were uncooperative with investigators, which complicates the ongoing inquiry. The police also noted that Bobby Salazar’s did not have security cameras, limiting the available evidence from the incident.

This stabbing incident raised safety concerns in the area, prompting Splash Fresno to temporarily close its bar following police activity on the scene.

Background of the Restaurant Owner

The incident unfolds against a backdrop of legal troubles for Bobby Salazar, who, along with two others, faces felony charges related to arson. It is alleged that Salazar orchestrated a scheme in which one of his restaurants was set on fire, allowing him to collect over $900,000 in insurance payouts, a claim he denies.

As the investigation continues, officials urge the community to remain vigilant. The shocking nature of this stabbing event has sparked conversations about safety in this bustling area of Fresno.