North Huntsville, September 30, 2025
News Summary
The closure of 708 Bar & Grille in North Huntsville has sparked community backlash as allegations of violence lead Malcom Gopher, the co-owner, to dispute claims linking the venue to nearby violent incidents. Following a recent legal ruling, residents have shown solidarity with Gopher, arguing that closing the establishment disproportionately affects local Black-owned businesses while voicing concerns about the broader implications of the actions against the bar.
North Huntsville is facing community backlash as 708 Bar & Grille confronts the possibility of permanent closure due to serious allegations of violence. Malcolm Gopher, the co-owner, vigorously disputes claims linking the venue to shootings and other violent incidents that have occurred nearby. The bar, situated at 708 Poplar Ave. NW, was ordered to close following a preliminary injunction granted by Madison County Circuit Judge Ruth Ann Hall on September 17.
The city of Huntsville filed a lawsuit against Gopher and the business owners on May 5, 2024, identifying the establishment as a public nuisance due to a pattern of violent occurrences, including multiple shootings, drug-related activities, and assaults. The enforcement actions were notably escalated following a shooting incident on May 5 that left five people injured in the bar’s patio area, despite the absence of a permit for patio seating.
Throughout the years, various violent episodes have fueled tensions surrounding the bar. For instance, a domestic violence case on the same day as the shooting incident and other violent outbreaks have resulted in numerous arrests, all contributing to the city’s characterization of the bar as a public safety threat. In October 2022, the Liquor License Review Committee also suspended the restaurant’s liquor license for 90 days due to repeated violations and disturbances related to its operations.
In response to the allegations and legal actions, Malcolm Gopher claims that the challenges faced by his establishment are symptomatic of broader issues within the Huntsville Police Department rather than the bar itself. He argues that he has sought assistance in managing safety and security but has not received adequate support. Gopher also asserts that he possesses evidence of harassment toward his business, which he believes has contributed to the negative circumstances surrounding 708 Bar & Grille.
The local community has shown solidarity with Gopher, voicing support during a recent city council meeting held on September 25. However, residents were denied the chance to voice their concerns directly regarding the situation due to ongoing litigation. Some council members attempted to facilitate public comments, but the majority decision ultimately rejected this motion.
Many community members argue that the closing of 708 Bar & Grille disproportionately affects local Black-owned businesses. Gopher emphasized the need for fair treatment and resources for such establishments, suggesting that the enforcement against his bar exists while similar venues with records of violence remain operational. The current situation has incited frustration among residents who feel marginalized in discussions that impact their local businesses.
As the fight against the preliminary injunction and public nuisance claims continues, Gopher and the owners of 708 Bar & Grille are seeking to have the legal ruling reconsidered. They stress that the closure has led to significant financial hardship and is detrimental not only to their business but to the surrounding community as well.
Key Points Summary
- Malcolm Gopher challenges allegations leading to the closure of 708 Bar & Grille.
- The bar was closed following a preliminary injunction due to repeated violent incidents.
- Multiple shootings and criminal activities have been reported outside the establishment.
- Community members show support for Gopher, but public comments were not allowed at a city council meeting.
- The owners aim to contest the injunction, citing financial hardships and community impacts.
FAQ
What triggered the closure of 708 Bar & Grille?
The closure followed allegations of violence, including shootings and other criminal activities at the bar, leading the city to file a lawsuit declaring it a public nuisance.
What incidents have occurred outside 708 Bar & Grille?
Multiple shootings have been reported outside the bar, including an incident on May 5, 2024, that left five people injured.
What has been the community reaction to the bar’s closure?
Residents have expressed their support for Gopher and lamented the closure, perceiving it as a harm to the community and indicative of discrimination against Black-owned businesses.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 708 Poplar Ave. NW, North Huntsville |
| Owner | Malcolm Gopher |
| Legal Issues | Sued by Huntsville for being a public nuisance; preliminary injunction granted |
| Community Actions | Residents supported Gopher at a city council meeting; efforts to allow public comments failed |
| Concerns Raised | Harassment, financial hardship, and discrimination against Black-owned businesses |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Toyota Reveals Updates for the 2026 Corolla Cross
Huntsville City Council Debates Online Sales Tax Allocation
Huntsville Police Sergeant Arrested for Misuse of Defensive Spray
Huntsville City Council Approves $343.7 Million Budget
Huntsville City Council Approves $344 Million Budget Amid Concerns
Huntsville City Council Approves $343.7 Million Budget Amid Concerns
Huntsville Residents Rally in Support of 708 Bar and Grille
Tragic Shooting Incident in Lawrence County, Alabama
Series of Police Vehicle Incidents in Huntsville
Huntsville Reports Fatal Accidental Shooting of 16-Year-Old
Additional Resources
- WAFF: Huntsville Residents Outraged After Bar & Grill is Chained & Locked
- Wikipedia: Huntsville, Alabama
- AL.com: North Huntsville Bar Owner Challenges Allegations
- Google Search: Huntsville Bar and Grille shutdown
- WHNT: Owner Responds to 708 Bar and Grill Shutdown
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Public Nuisance
- Rocket City Now: Four Injured in Overnight Shooting at 708 Bar and Grille
- Google News: Huntsville bar violence
- WHNT: Huntsville Bar Forced to Close Doors After Court Order
- Google Scholar: Huntsville Bar public nuisance
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER
The HUNTSVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHuntsville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntsville, Madison County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Panoply Arts Festival, Rocket City Brewfest, and Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, plus leading businesses in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Boeing, SAIC, and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBirmingham.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
