California Litigation to Stop Sales to Obviously Intoxicated

In May, Ryan Nielsen, 21, was drinking at Oggi's Pizza & Brewing Co. in Vista, California. Although Nielsen was obviously intoxicated, the employees continued to serve him alcohol. With a blood alcohol content of more than twice the legal limit, Neilsen left Oggi's in his car and later picked up two acquaintances, including Eric Tryon. Nielsen lost control of his car, killing himself and 18-year-old Tryon, and injuring the third passenger.

Under California law, it is a crime to serve alcohol to someone who is obviously intoxicated. Businesses with alcohol licenses are responsible for the actions of their employees, and a liquor license is a privilege that should be taken away if not used responsibly. The family of Eric Tryon, along with local and statewide community organizations and prevention groups, want businesses selling alcoholic beverages to be held accountable for serving intoxicated patrons.

Tryon's family has filed a lawsuit claiming that Oggi's obtained an unfair business advantage and received profits from the illegal sales by serving an obviously intoxicated customer. The family is not seeking any monetary award. They want only to prevent unlawful business practices that endanger community health a safety.

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