DC9 Grounded For Now

A Washington, D.C., nightclub is closed and its liquor license suspended as police investigate the alleged beating death of a man outside the building Oct. 15.

The state Alcoholic Beverage Control Board reportedly suspended DC9’s liquor license Oct. 16 pending the outcome of a police investigation, according to WRC-TV.

Ali Ahmed Mohammed was reportedly chased down and beaten by five employees of the DC9 nightclub when he allegedly become belligerent after he was denied entry to the venue after closing.

Witnesses told police Mohammed threw a brick or a rock through the club’s window, prompting the altercation, according to the Washington Post.

Officers reportedly arrived at the club at about 2:30 a.m. and found Mohammed “lying on the ground, unconscious and not breathing.” Mohammed was described as having dried blood on his face and his head looked swollen. CPR was applied until paramedics arrived. He later died at a nearby hospital, the Post said.

Police said club co-owner William Spieler and four other employees have been charged with one count each of aggravated assault.

DC9 announced it has canceled or relocated all concerts scheduled through mid-November – including Matthew Dear, A Sunny Day In Glasgow, Small Balckand The Legendary Pink Dots – and posted a message of condolence.

“Our DC9 family is deeply saddened by the events that have occurred. During this time, our prayers are with the families and friends of all concerned and with all other employees and friends of DC9,” the message says. “DC9 is a special environment and we look forward to welcome [sic] you back with open [arms] after our doors re-open.”