City officials file motion to close Columbus nightclub following fatal shooting

A Downtown nightclub with a history of violence taking place on the premises could be closed by city attorneys.

The Columbus City Attorney’s office has officially filed a motion to shut down Avalon Club, located at 205 N. 5th St., citing a plethora of police calls from the property, including multiple fights, reports of guns being stolen out of vehicles, patrons assaulted by the nightclub’s own employee, shots fired in the area, and even fatal shootings occurring on the property.

Just two months ago, two security guards were shot and killed while working the doors of the club. Since January of 2023, Columbus police have been called to the club 28 times. 

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“We want Columbus to have a vibrant nightlife, but it needs to be safe,” City Attorney Zach Klein said in a statement. “The shootings and violent crime we’ve seen at this property are unacceptable. If the Court agrees, we’ll be able to shut it down and bring some relief to nearby residents and families. No one should have to deal with that kind of violence in their neighborhood.”

The City alleges violations of court orders, such as not employing licensed security. The Attorney’s office are taking next steps towards making Downtown safer, which include requiring special duty police officers in the club’s parking lot, plus requiring licensed security on-site.

A contempt hearing is scheduled for August 27 which would determine the possible closure.

“The City remains committed to shutting down hubs of criminal activity like this nightclub,” Sarah Pomeroy,  Senior Assistant City Attorney, remarked in a statement. “Patrons, employees and area neighbors deserve safety — not more of the same violence and lawlessness that have plagued this property for too long.”

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