Mayor Donald R. Grebien Gives Support to City Council Actions Against Fab City Cigar Lounge on Appeal to DBR

PAWTUCKET – Following the violence resulting in a death last month at Fab City Cigar Lounge on Newport Avenue, the Pawtucket City Council voted to revoke the licenses No. 1435 and 1436 for Fab City Cigar Lounge, Fab City Cigar Lounge Inc. The business has now appealed the Board of License Commissioner’s decision to the Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation (DBR).

“As the City Council has closed the business and the business has appealed, I as Mayor want to make it clear that I support the Council’s decision,” stated Mayor Donald R. Grebien. “Due to the numerous incidents of violence, violations, and most recently a fatal shooting, this business presents an extreme threat to the safety of the public of Pawtucket. The Council, serving in its capacity as the Board of License Commissioners, closed the business, and DBR should uphold their decision and deny the appeal.”

Authorities continue to investigate the case and what led up to the events of the fatal shooting. A suspect has been arraigned on the following charges:

• Murder in the 1st degree
• Discharging a firearm during the commission of a crime of violence-resulting in death
• Discharging a firearm during the commission of a crime of violence-resulting in bodily injury
• Carrying a pistol or revolver without a license

“Our residents deserve to be safe,” said Grebien. “Now I hope they are allowed to continue to feel that safety with the business closed.”