Charlotte, NC, July 26, 2025
News Summary
Mi Cabana, a nightclub in Charlotte, has had its alcohol licenses revoked by the NC ABC due to a history of violence, including a homicide. Since mid-2023, there have been 28 police calls to the venue, which has raised significant public safety concerns. Key incidents contributing to the revocation include a violent argument in March and a fatal shooting in April. The nightclub’s management has faced scrutiny for negligence in responding to emergencies and violating liquor laws, prompting discussions about nightlife safety in Charlotte.
Charlotte – Mi Cabana, a nightclub located on Eastway Drive in Charlotte, has had its alcohol licenses revoked by the North Carolina Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission (NC ABC) following a series of violent incidents, including a homicide. The decision, announced on a Friday, comes in response to a documented history of violence at the venue and highlights public safety concerns surrounding nightlife in the area.
Since July 2023, the nightclub has been the site of 28 police calls, reflecting an ongoing pattern of problematic behavior. Two particularly critical incidents were pivotal in the NC ABC’s decision to suspend the club’s alcohol licenses. The first occurrence was in March 2025 when an argument erupted inside the club, leading to violence outside, resulting in one person being hospitalized in critical condition. The second incident took place in April 2025, when Javier Lee Martinez Hernandez was shot multiple times outside of Mi Cabana.
Investigations revealed alarming lack of response by bar management during the latter incident. Kim To, the nightclub’s manager, reportedly failed to call 911 for assistance when Hernandez was shot. Additionally, she admitted to selling alcohol past the legal closing time, further exacerbating the situation.
During an inspection conducted on July 19, 2025, NC ABC agents discovered a staff member who claimed to be “security” was armed with a fixed-blade knife. Furthermore, evidence was found indicating that patrons were consuming alcohol after designated closing hours. The officers also encountered a patron possessing a loaded firearm inside the nightclub, raising serious questions about safety protocols.
Mi Cabana operates under the ownership of K Tran LLC, which retains the right to appeal the suspension of their alcohol licenses through a contested case hearing. The club was licensed to sell malt beverages, unfortified wine, and mixed drinks, and the revocation of its licenses marks a significant shift in its operations.
The NC ABC’s actions have ignited widespread discussions on nightlife safety across Charlotte. With the urban landscape gradually transitioning to a vibrant nightlife hub, incidents like those at Mi Cabana underscore critical issues related to violence and alcohol consumption in entertainment venues. As concerns grow about the safety of nightlife areas, law enforcement and regulatory bodies face increasing pressure to ensure public safety and responsible liquor licensing.
Violence and Alcohol Licensing: Key Incidents
- Homicide of Javier Lee Martinez Hernandez in April 2025.
- Argument leading to hospitalization of a victim in March 2025.
- Total of 28 police calls reported since July 2023.
- Staff negligence regarding emergency response and alcohol sales.
- Discovery of weapons and illegal after-hours drinking by agents.
Background Context
The nightlife scene in Charlotte has witnessed a rapid transformation over recent years, positioning the city as a destination for entertainment. However, incidents of violence and irresponsible alcohol service have raised alarms among public safety officials. The suspension of Mi Cabana’s alcohol licenses serves as a critical reminder of the need for adherence to safety regulations and the importance of addressing violence in public spaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the revocation of Mi Cabana’s alcohol licenses?
The North Carolina Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission revoked Mi Cabana’s alcohol licenses due to a series of violent incidents, including a homicide, and a pattern of problems that raised public safety concerns.
How many police calls have been made to Mi Cabana?
There have been 28 police calls reported to Mi Cabana since July 2023.
What incidents contributed to the action taken against Mi Cabana?
Two critical incidents include an assault resulting in a hospitalization in March 2025 and the shooting of Javier Lee Martinez Hernandez in April 2025.
What is the status of Mi Cabana’s alcohol license?
Mi Cabana’s alcohol licenses have been revoked, but ownership has the right to petition for a contested case hearing regarding the suspension.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- QC News: Uptown Charlotte Mass Shooting
- WCNC: Multiple Shooting in Uptown Charlotte
- Charlotte Observer: Uptown Shooting Incident
- Wikipedia: Nightlife
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Nightlife
Author: HERE Charlotte
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