AGCO seeks to suspend liquor licence of downtown nightclub after teen patron found dead inside

The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) says it is seeking to suspend the liquor licence of a downtown Toronto nightclub for 60 days after a 19-year-old patron was found dead inside the establishment following a night of heavy drinking.

The Notice of Proposal (NOP) for the suspension comes after an investigation into the tragic incident that unfolded at Mister Wolf at 567 Queen Street W. on Saturday, May 25, 2024.

An AGCO release says the “patron was seated with a group at a VIP area inside the premises, where they were served three large bottles of liquor. After consuming numerous drinks throughout the night, the patron began repeatedly stumbling, staggering, losing his balance, engaging in physical altercations with other patrons, and exhibiting visible signs of intoxication.”

The AGCO says security or staff failed to intervene in any way, despite the patron’s deteriorating condition.

“Shortly after 1:00 AM, the patron proceeded up a stairwell that was supposed to be cordoned off. He was found deceased inside the stairwell the following afternoon,” the report states.

A toxicology analysis later confirmed that the teen had a blood alcohol content level that was twice the legal driving limit.

The AGCO concluded that the nightclub “permitted intoxication” to occur on the licensed premises and “knew or ought to have known that the deceased was exhibiting clear signs of intoxication and failed to intervene as required.”

“The AGCO holds liquor licensees to high standards for the safe and responsible sale of alcohol,” it said. “Liquor licence holders must ensure their customers are not served to intoxication or permit intoxication on their premises. It is the responsibility of all licensees to ensure their staff are properly trained to recognize the signs of intoxication.

The nightclub will have the right to appeal the AGCO’s decision.

“This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the critical responsibility licensees have to prioritize the safety of their patrons. We trust a 60-day suspension of their liquor licence will motivate this licensee to take all necessary actions to ensure responsible service and the safety of their patrons. The AGCO will certainly be monitoring closely that they do,” AGCO CEO Dr. Karin Schnarr said in a release.