Settlement reached against Tuscaloosa bar more than 4 years after patron drowned in the Black Warrior River
The family of a University of Alabama student who drowned in the Black Warrior River in Tuscaloosa has now reached a settlement in a civil lawsuit over his death.
Attorneys told WBRC Thursday that the settlement includes changes to help keep people safe. Garrett Walker died more than four years ago after leaving a bar.
The Gray Lady Bar and Garrett Walker’s family have reached a settlement, a settlement that involved much more than money.
Garrett Walker(Walker family)
“The claims against the Gray Lady Bar have been resolved,” said Garrett Walker’s family attorney Josh Hayes.
Resolved more than four years after first responders pulled the 20-year-old’s body from the Black Warrior River in Tuscaloosa Nov. 7, 2021.
“While nothing could ever bring Garrett back nor fill the hole created by this tremendous loss, the family is gratified that this litigation brought in their name has resulted in meaningful changes to the Tuscaloosa bar and restaurant scene,” said Hayes.
Changes that apply specifically to The Gray Lady Bar. Part of the settlement included The Gray Lady writing a letter of apology to Walker’s family and more.
“Enhanced training. They have agreed to annual professional development on responsible alcohol service and mandatory responsible vendor certification for all its staff,” said Hayes.
And yet even more reforms for The Grady Lady, according to Hayes, an operation overhaul, an advanced ID verification system, a strict prohibition going forward with employees drinking alcohol with patrons, active participation in minor operative programs through the ABC Board, and the launch of an underaged alcohol awareness campaign within The Gray Lady Bar venue.
“The Gray Lady has agreed to spearhead efforts to enroll other local bars in this safety programs,” said Hayes.
The autopsy showed Walker died from an accidental drowning. His blood-alcohol content was .212. Hayes says police have ruled out anything criminal but the family still wants to learn more.
“We believe there are still individuals out there have knowledge about Garrett’s final hours. The family covets those answers,” Hayes said.
Answers that remain elusive for now four and a half years later.
WBRC reached to The Gray Lady’s attorney for a response. We are still waiting to hear back.
Hayes says there also is still litigation against Delta Chi National Fraternity.
Hayes and the Walker family also extended their condolences to the Gracey family Thursday. Gracey, a University of Alabama student, drowned recently while on a spring break trip in Spain.
“At the outset of today, the family wanted me to extend their sincere heartfelt sympathy, love and empathy to the family of Jimmy Gracey, the UA student who died tragically last week in Spain. The walkers unfortunately know all too well how this feels and how this totally unended the lives of the Gracey family.”
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