A recent crackdown on underage drinking at a Tempe bar came on the heels of a tragic hit-and-run incident involving a 19-year-old woman, who police say had visited the establishment hours before the deadly crash. According to FOX 10 Phoenix, the Tempe Police Department released details of the investigation, highlighting that the collision occurred near Rural Rd. and Lemon St. on September 14, leading to the death of an 18-year-old motorcyclist.
Further investigative efforts connected the accused to the Tempe Tavern, where she was reportedly spotted just before the incident. As a consequence of the ensuing investigation, the bar is now embroiled in a larger controversy over alleged underage drinking. As reported by ABC15, a law enforcement operation conducted on November 20 led to the arrest of 249 underage individuals within the premises of the Tempe Tavern.
The operation unveiled various violations, including the possession of fraudulent IDs, underage intoxication, and providing false information. The 19-year-old implicated in the hit-and-run is now facing charges of felony failure to stop at a collision involving death. After leaving the bar, she purportedly walked home and then, shortly after, took to the wheel—the decision that would culminate in the fateful accident.
This series of events has spurred the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control to launch a separate investigation into Tempe Tavern. Fire inspectors have also reported at least one fire code violation during the police operations. Tempe Police Chief Ken McKoy emphasized the significance of these operations, stating, "These operations are about safety, accountability, and preventing tragedies," and reassured the community of the department's commitment to excellence, professionalism, and compassion as per remarks obtained by ABC15.
The Tempe Police Department's ongoing investigation into the underage alcohol enforcement operation continues to shed light on the broader issues surrounding youth access to alcohol and the potential repercussions for community safety.
