ATLANTA — A week after the deadly shooting of the co-owner of a popular Atlanta lounge, their business has announced its closure online.
Twelve hours ago, the Instagram page for the lounge posted a photo stating "Republic Closed" with the description "RIP @RepublicATL 2019/2023."
Last Saturday, their co-owner Michael Gidewon was shot and killed allegedly by someone who knew him at the club. Police said suspect Jonathan Soto, 39, is wanted in connection to his death. The Gidewon family is offering a $100,000 reward for information leading to Soto's capture.
A former employee said Soto worked for Gidewon as a promoter. Michael Gidewon's brother and business partner Alex Gidewon released a statement from the family on Instagram confirming that the suspect and victim knew each other.
A somber and dreary Saturday matched the mood of Republic Lounge customers finding out the popular nightclub will never reopen its doors.
“I was in shock. I really couldn't believe it," Joshua Brown said. “I first started coming after the pandemic in 2021. You know, masks are off. I wanted to get out, and I've seen so many entertainers come here.”
Brown said Republic Lounge was a staple in Atlanta's nightlife not only for him, but for thousands in the city.
“It means so much. Republic actually reminds me of some of the older clubs that I grew up with," Brown said. "It's basically one of the most legendary, most epic clubs that I think Atlanta is definitely going to miss."
“It was just good energy," Tyra Grayson said.
Grayson, and many others in metro Atlanta, knew of the Gidewon brothers and their contributions to entertainment.
“It makes me frustrated because these things don't deserve to happen to good people, especially good people who do nothing but give back to the city, who put on these great events," Grayson said.
Those who knew Michael Gidewon said he was a gentle man who put his wife and kids first.
“They're like one big family," Grayson said. "I felt very sorry for him that somebody that was close in his friend group would do something like this. I really felt sad about the whole situation because they do nothing but bring light to Atlanta.”
“I'm definitely sending my condolences to the friends and family you know of the owners of the club, and thank you for such a good time," Brown said.