2 Bartenders Accused Of Serving Minor Who Hit Horseback Rider

SONOMA COUNTY, CA ? Two Sonoma County bartenders have been arrested on suspicion of selling alcohol to a minor who was then involved in an alcohol-related crash that resulted in major injuries to a horseback rider participating in the annual Virgin of Guadalupe march, the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control ? ABC ? said Thursday.

The arrests of the two bartenders, and an ABC accusation that has been filed against the Final Edition Bar, 412 Larkfield Center, are connected to a Dec. 12, 2021, alcohol-related crash on Old Redwood Highway.

Santa Rosa police officers responded to reports of a hit-and-run crash and found the horseback rider suffering serious injuries. Through their investigation, the SRPD identified the driver as 20-year-old Troy Hale of Santa Rosa.

SRPD contacted ABC and an investigation was opened to determine the source of the alcohol. The investigation revealed Hale had been drinking inside the Final Edition bar for several hours before the crash occurred, ABC Spokesperson John Carr said in a news release.

Hale is accused of causing the crash shortly after he drove away from the bar. He was later arrested on suspicion of felony DUI and other charges stemming from the SRPD investigation.

ABC agents identified 41-year-old Jason James Correia of Santa Rosa and 38-year-old Mandy McClish of Santa Rosa as the bartenders suspected of serving Hale at Final Edition the night of the crash.

"The SRPD Traffic Bureau regularly works with ABC agents to address overserving patrons at local bars and restaurants," Santa Rosa police Sgt. Christopher Mahurin said. "This investigation is an example of how collaborating with other agencies will help keep our community safe."

In addition to the bartenders' arrests, the ABC has filed an accusation against the alcoholic beverage license of the Final Edition bar that could result in penalties, including a possible suspension of its liquor license. The accusation includes allegations the bar sold alcohol to a minor who later caused great bodily injury to another person and permitted a minor to enter and remain on the premises.

"Preventing youth access to alcohol and protecting communities from the dangers associated with these violations is a high priority," said ABC Director Eric Hirata. "ABC licensees must remain vigilant, and carefully check identifications to prevent minors from gaining access to alcohol at their establishments."

The horseback rider was in critical condition immediately following the crash but has since recovered, police said Friday.