Awful scene on Lower Broadway last night…
It’s been anything but smooth sailing for Nashville bars the past few months. After Coronavirus forced them to shut their doors indefinitely, many establishments have now become the target of looting and vandalism as the Nashville protests turned violent yesterday.
In response to the tragic death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, protesters have taken to the streets in cities across the country demanding justice. And unfortunately, as often times is the case, that legitimate and very necessary conversation gets hijacked by those aiming to exploit the situation for their own personal gain.
According to WKRN, windows were smashed out of several Broadway bars and businesses including AJ’s Good Time Bar, Boot Barn Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, and more. Buildings were vandalized with graffiti, looted and some even saw fires set inside.
Steve Smith, the owner of Tootsie’s World Famous Orchid Lounge, Honky Tonk Central, Kid Rock’s Big Ass Honky Tonk & Rock ‘n’ Roll Steakhouse, Rippy’s and The Diner told WKRN that he “has armed security at all his businesses downtown and if there is vandalism or looting at his places, they will shoot to kill.”
Security footage captured rioters setting a fire inside of Big Time Boots.
More protests are expected to resume today.
Just this past Friday, the city of Nashville had amended their previous social distancing policy to allow bars to have full bands performing live music again.
