A man who threw a chair outside a Melbourne strip club, striking his friend in the head during a chaotic altercation, has been identified as authorities move to issue fines for the viral incident. The episode unfolded on the notorious King Street nightlife strip around 9:20 PM on Friday evening, capturing public attention through security footage.
Chaotic Scene Outside Bar 20
The incident began when two men were ejected from Bar 20, a well-known strip club, after allegedly behaving offensively toward dancers and staff members. Security camera recordings show the pair engaging in a scuffle with bouncers before being forcibly pushed out onto the street. One of the men momentarily grabbed a bollard, seemingly considering it as a weapon, but abandoned the idea when a bouncer intervened.
His companion initially appeared to accept the situation, sitting down on the footpath in a subdued manner. However, moments later, he returned to the club's entrance, apologising and pleading with security guards to allow him back inside. Unbeknownst to him, this decision would lead to an unexpected and painful outcome.
Chair Thrown in Anger Strikes Friend
While one man was negotiating with bouncers, the other entered a nearby restaurant, seizing a chair from the dining area. He carried the chair outside and hurled it down the street toward the bar entrance, apparently aiming at security staff. The bouncer on duty saw the projectile coming and quickly ducked inside to avoid impact.
Tragically, the chair did not hit its intended target. Instead, it struck the man's friend, who was still on the footpath, hitting him squarely in the head. The victim, a workmate who had recently arrived from Germany, was knocked down by the force of the blow. The thrower, later identified as Tony Rogers, was captured on video realising his mistake in a moment of stunned realisation.
Police Investigation and Pending Fines
Authorities have confirmed they are actively trying to locate Rogers in connection with the incident. Once found, police plan to issue fines for several offences, including:
- Refusing to leave licensed premises
- Engaging in riotous behaviour
- Other related public order violations
Rogers, who works for a furniture manufacturer in Melbourne, ironically specialises in chair production. He has declined to comment when approached about the incident, leaving many questions unanswered about the motivations behind his actions.
Broader Implications for Nightlife Safety
This event highlights ongoing concerns about safety and behaviour in Melbourne's vibrant nightlife districts. King Street, in particular, has a reputation for late-night altercations, prompting calls for improved security measures and responsible patron conduct. The viral nature of the footage has amplified public scrutiny, with many expressing shock at the reckless behaviour displayed.
As police continue their investigation, the incident serves as a stark reminder of how quickly situations can escalate, leading to unintended consequences. The victim's condition has not been detailed, but the impact of being struck by a chair at close range can result in serious injuries, adding gravity to the thrower's actions.
