Conversations about terminating an employee are often uncomfortable and even tense, but on Wednesday, two employees at a Pittsburgh bar were allegedly stabbed by an employee they had to let go.
Pittsburgh police told KDKA that around 11:30 p.m. EDT on Wednesday, the employees attempted to fire 40-year-old Jaymar Gilbert from his employment at the Bigham Tavern in the Mount Washington area of Pittsburgh. However, a physical altercation between the employees and Gilbert broke out, prompting Gilbert to allegedly stab both of the employees.
One of the victims was taken to the hospital with a stab wound in the abdomen, and according to WTAE, is in critical condition. The other victim was stabbed multiple times and was listed as being in serious condition. Neither of the victims' identities has been released.
Police responded to the scene and took Gilbert into custody. He was charged with aggravated assault, possessing instruments of crime, recklessly endangering another person and theft by unlawful taking. It's unclear at this time if Gilbert has any prior criminal history or if this is his first offense. Newsweek reached out to the Pittsburgh Police Department but did not receive a response in time for publication.
In a statement posted on Facebook, the Bigham Tavern called it an "isolated internal altercation" that was quickly diffused by first responders. The bar added that its goal is to provide a safe work environment for both employees and patrons. Bigham Tavern did not share how long Gilbert worked at the establishment or what his position was.
"It is our intent to properly manage any incidents that occur as to minimize injury and other forms of loss," the statement added. "Wednesday night's events were no different in process but harrowing in ending. We are wishing a quick recovery to our loved ones at this somber time."
Since Bigham Tavern posted about the stabbing, Facebook users began leaving comments with well wishes for the employees who were injured and suggestions for fundraisers. Others also offered their prayers for everyone involved and praised the establishment's food and service.
In Pennsylvania, aggravated assault can be classified as a first or second-degree felony depending on what exactly occurred, the intent of the person, and who was involved. First degree aggravated assault carries a penalty of up to 20 years in prison and second degree aggravated assault has a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison.
Bigham Tavern usually opens on Thursdays at 11:00 a.m. EDT but the bar posted on Facebook that it would not open until 4:00 p.m. EDT following the incident.
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