The owner of a Waco-area bar is speaking out after a man fired a gun across the street from the establishment late Friday night, saying the suspect had been refused service before the incident.
Deputies with the Stark County Sheriff’s Office responded to the Thirsty Cattle Saloon, located at 2521 Waynesburg Drive SE, around 11:30 p.m. Oct. 24 for reports of gunfire.
According to investigators, the suspect, identified as 34-year-old William Hyde, had been at the Thirsty Cattle Saloon before crossing the street toward the Marathon gas station. While crossing, a northbound vehicle nearly struck him. Deputies said Hyde then fired several shots in the direction of the vehicle.
No one was injured, and there are no reports of anyone or anything being hit by gunfire. Hyde was arrested and booked on charges of possession of a weapon while under the influence, attempted felonious assault, and discharging a firearm near a prohibited premises.
The bar’s owner, Tia DiMichele, told Jordan Miller News that Hyde was already intoxicated and causing a disturbance when he entered the business, prompting staff to refuse him service and ask him to leave.
“From all the details and witness accounts, the man accused of firing shots came into the bar already intoxicated and irritated, was causing a scene because my bartender on duty would not serve him and she asked him to leave, which he did,” DiMichele said. “He proceeded across the street to the gas station, which is where he fired his gun.”
She added that the Thirsty Cattle Saloon recently transitioned to a members-only establishment focused more on its restaurant side, serving “great food” and creating a family-friendly atmosphere.
“We close at 1 a.m. even though we have a 2:30 liquor license because we try to avoid problems that can arise later in the night,” the owner said. “Our establishment provides a lot of support for the community by hosting fundraisers and rides for families in need.”
The Stark County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate.
