Bottoms Up nightclub security officer at man driving car into building
Buffalo NY Aug 6 2019
Bottoms Up nightclub said a man drove his vehicle into the entrance of the building early Sunday, after being refused entry earlier in the evening.
Buffalo police said the incident occurred about 4:20 a.m., at 49 W. Chippewa St. Police said the driver, identified as 24-year-old Najee Shabazz Jackson, was in custody.
He is being charged with three felonies: reckless endangerment, second-degree assault and criminal mischief, according to police.
Bottoms Up, in a statement on its Facebook page, said the crash occurred just after closing when the man “drove his vehicle through our front doors with intent to cause damage, and to possibly harm the staff.” Police said the driver and some patrons were injured, but the injuries did not appear to be serious.
Police said a security officer inside the nightclub fired his gun, but no one was struck by gunfire.
“We are incredibly thankful that our security and staff were able to protect our guests,” the nightclub said in its statement.
Bottoms Up said it plans to reopen on Thursday.
Police said they are seeking additional witnesses to the incident and are asking them to call the confidential tip line at 847-2255.
