West Columbus bar, site of double murder, ordered to shutter doors by 2025

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COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH)  –  A West Side sports bar that has been connected to multiple shootings and other crimes will be shut down by the end of the year.

According to the City Attorney’s Office, the Property Action Team reached an agreement with the owners of Cain’s Sports Bar to close by Dec. 31. The bar in the Holly Hill neighborhood was reportedly under a court order to improve safety and security on the site.

The Sullivant Avenue business has been the scene of several crimes, including shootings, including multiple homicides, as well as criminal activity such as violent crimes, theft and arrests of individuals with felony warrants.

Cain’s was the site of a double murder where four individuals were shot just after 2 a.m. on July 16, 2022. Nearly eight months later, three people were injured in a shooting after a fight outside the bar, also just after 2 a.m.

According to court documents, bar owners failed to hire properly licensed security personnel, as mandated by the court in August 2023, and criminal activity continued at the premises.

The City Attorney’s Office said that for the remainder of its days in operation, Cain’s is required to initiate last call by 12:30 a.m. and close by 1 a.m. Licensed security must also remain on site until all patrons clear the parking lot and vicinity.

Additionally, owners must meet regularly with the city and police to discuss ongoing compliance and safety concerns at the premises.

Upon the closure of Cain’s at the end of the year, owners will place its liquor permit into safekeeping with Ohio Liquor Control until owners can transfer the permit to another operator.