The Observer was made aware that on the 12th May 2023, the Eagle, a popular Hathian LGBT venue owned by Jack and Oba had been gutted by fire and near burnt to the ground.
On Twitter, rumours were quick to arise about why this had happened. Somewhat famous and LGBT supporter Ryder Millet said, “Probably a hate crime I’ve heard that people in LGBTQ++ are being targeted.” whereas there were a number of people who thought that perhaps the fire was related to Insurance fraud considering how recently the venue had opened.
As well as Zariah, Tori, and Z also thought the fire sounded fishy, this soon after opening. Although it has to be said that these type of responses are fairly typical in Hathian, and ‘pot meets kettle’ might ring true with someone like Z who has probably set her own home on fire just for the giggles. Also, we know that Tori suffered a recent loss of a home due to fire…
FDH Response
FDH was by all accounts quickly on the scene and was able to save the garage attached to the building, although it appears they had to cut holes in security shutters to get in. From our previous understanding in discussion with Oba, this part of the building was to be for motorcycle repair or servicing, but it is not clear how far ahead that business had got, or whether any smoke or other damage may have impacted it.
Next Steps
While the owners are likely counting the cost of lost stock and whether the building is even viable to reopen, it must be said that this is a blow to the queer friendly scene in Hathian after the closure earlier in the year of Rough Ryders, a previously well received LGBT establishment.
The Observer will bring you an interview with Jack and Oba if they are willing, but for now we expect they are focused on the damage and what to do next. If this was just bad luck then hopefully they are insured, if it was somehow gang related then the Observer is interested to know (tips please) who might be involved and also, was the Eagle aligned to any particular established group? Based on our meeting with them, we don’t believe they had any interest in anything except promoting their business, so perhaps Ryder is onto something.
Finally, the Observer did hear of a whisper of a fight after the fire between the owners and one Detective Landon Fyre. Fyre, a pugilistic seven foot officer from HPD is often involved in altercations, but fighting with the owners of a place that burned down? The Observer will endeavour to find out more!
Breaking Update
On the 13th May 2023, we were provided with CCTV footage from outside the venue, clearing showing at least one known Reject member with a molotov or similar. What’s behind this gang violence? What did the Eagle owners get involved in to call the Rejects on them? Will HPD do anything about this escalation of violence?
Watch this space!
