GALVESTON, Texas – A Galveston bartender was arrested after authorities said he overserved alcohol to a driver involved in a crash that killed four people last month.
Gill Garcia, 58, was arrested by the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission on Monday in connection with a crash that happened Aug. 6. He’s charged with selling alcohol to an intoxicated person.
According to TABC, Garcia was working as a bartender when a drunk driver crashed with a golf cart, killing four people, ranging in age from 4 to 49. He’s accused of overserving alcohol to the driver, prior to the crash.
The four people killed were all family members who were visiting Galveston Island on vacation, according to officials.
Garcia could face a fine of up to $500 and up to a year in jail, according to TABC.
“This tragic case illustrates why it’s so important that alcohol retailers take steps to prevent sales to customers who show signs of intoxication,” TABC Executive Director Thomas Graham said in a statement. “Businesses can help prevent deadly crashes by following the law and educating employees on how to identify signs of intoxication. Businesses that are found to have contributed to serious injury or loss of life will be held accountable.”
The bar where Garcia works could face a possible fine or a temporary suspension of its alcohol license or permit, according to the TABC.
The case is still under investigation.