The city of Laurel announced on Monday that it had suspended the occupancy permit for the Mexican restaurant where Cinco de Mayo celebrations turned violent last week.
City officials said the Amigos Mexican Grill on Baltimore Avenue was ordered closed on Friday after a review by the city’s fire department and permitting office.
Preliminary findings from the review included the “misrepresentation” of the restaurant’s security plan, licensing and “the intended use of the space,” according to city officials.
In a statement, Mayor Keith R. Sydnor said, “The safety of our residents, visitors, and businesses remains our highest priority.”
“The City of Laurel will continue working with our public safety and regulatory partners to ensure accountability and compliance with all City requirements,” Sydnor said.
On May 5, three people were shot and two others were stabbed a short time later in two different areas of the parking lot of the shopping center where the restaurant is located, according to police and media reports.
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NBC4 Washington reported that a large crowd had gathered for a Cinco de Mayo celebration at Amigos and that social media videos captured a “chaotic scene” where punches were thrown. The station reported that police were already on scene to disperse the crowd when gunshots rang out.
No one answered the phone number listed for Amigos Mexican Grill on Monday afternoon. The owner did not immediately return an emailed request for comment.
The restaurant opened in late 2023, according to a letter from owner Fredy Salmoran requesting permission to host live entertainment.
In the letter, Salmoran detailed his security plan to maintain public safety within the establishment, adding that he intended to work with local authorities and follow all regulations.
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