HIRAM, Ga. — A Georgia man was arrested after firing shots inside a bar and grill and intentionally crashing his vehicle into the building Saturday evening, according to the Hiram Police Department.
Police said 34-year-old Eduardo Morales of Woodstock was asked to leave 278 South Bar at 11:30 p.m. because he was intoxicated. They said after Morales left the bar, he returned a short time later driving a black Dodge Ram 2500, where he pulled up to the front of the business.
Morales then began firing a weapon into the bar through the window of his truck, police said. Once his weapon was empty, he then drove his truck into the bar through the front doors hitting several customers.
Police said Morales attempted to back out of the bar but his truck got stuck. When he couldn’t get out, he allegedly tried to reload his gun but was pulled from the car and held by customers, until police arrived.
In a statement on social media, 278 South said they were devastated.
"Our hearts are broken over the events of last night. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all involved. We’ve always put our customer’s safety first and foremost and we are devastated."
The statement went on to say that there were many who stopped what could have been a more serious situation.
"We like to believe most people are good….and it showed last night. Many are heroes for their bravery and possibly stopping a situation that could have escalated even further. We will forever be grateful for these heroes."
According to a police report, Morales was treated at Paulding Wellstar Hospital for minor injures and then taken to the Paulding County Jail.
They said one person inside the bar was grazed by a bullet and another person who was hit twice by the vehicle, was treated and released.
Police said some customers left the bar before police got to the scene. They are encouraging those people to get in touch with Hiram investigators at 770-943-3807.
As of Sunday, Morales is charged with aggravated assault and aggravated battery. It is unclear when is set to appear in court.