Nashville Authorities hold Discussions on Broadway’s Safety following Chair-throwing Incident
Nashville – Following an incident in which singer Morgan Wallen is suspected of throwing a chair from a rooftop, city officials in Nashville are intensifying discussions about downtown safety measures in a bid to prevent future mishaps. The need for safety upgrades has emerged after a series of incidents, with the latest involving Wallen throwing a chair from a six-story rooftop bar.
Morgan Wallen and Broadway
Country music singer Morgan Wallen found himself in the back of a Metro Police car, followed by national attention. Metro Police confirm that a chair was thrown from Chief’s rooftop, Eric Church’s six-story bar, landing close to two Metro Police officers.
Rob Mortensen, the spokesperson for the Broadway Entertainment Association, expressed his concern. “Throwing anything from a rooftop poses a threat not only to our visitors but also to police officers, and is just not safe“, he said. Mortensen emphasized that such behavior will not be tolerated, underlining the need for downtown visitors to feel safe and comfortable.
Instances of Downtown Mishaps
This recent incident involving Wallen is not the first time city leaders have had to raise safety concerns. Last week, Metro Police arrested John Wilcox for allegedly throwing a full beer can at two Metro officers from Jason Aldean’s bar rooftop. In 2022, Nashville tourist Wyatt Whitlock tossed a large metal chair from the third story of the same bar, injuring a woman, resulting in charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.
The Response from City Leaders
Mortenson mentioned that discussions are ongoing among downtown stakeholders, including city officials, the director of nightlife, and police officers. They are in the process of exploring all possible options to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.
However, clear plans are yet to emerge. When questioned about the potential safety measures, such as additional netting or increased security, Ben McDonough, the Director of Nightlife did not provide specific answers. He stated, “As the Director of Nightlife and the Beer Board, my top priority is the health and safety of our city employees, residents, businesses, and our visitors. The safety of our city employees, residents, businesses, and visitors is paramount to the success and good reputation of Music City!“.
What’s Next?
The specific measures to be implemented remain unclear, but city leaders want to ensure that such dangerous, reckless behavior will not be repeated. The focus is on providing a safe and enjoyable environment for both residents and visitors in Music City.
All await keenly for a detailed plan from city officials that will effectively uphold the reputation of Downtown Nashville as a safe and attractive destination.
