Queens Club Tied to Shooting Shut Down Over Multiple Violations

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) — A club in Queens has been shut down for numerous violations one week after a livery driver was shot in the head during an incident stemming from the venue.

“It is evident that Club Purlieu is a danger to local residents and a detriment to our community’s” said Senator Michael Gianaris in a statement. “The management of this club puts our community at risk, wastes resources and delivers a terrible message to our children –it is unacceptable.”

Roberto Castillo, an unlicensed livery cab driver, was sent to Elmhurst Hospital in critical condition after being shot in the head as he wasdriving passengers who were involved in an incident at Club Purlieu in Astoria on March 4.

Investigators said the four men got into Castillo’s cab and someone else shot at the vehicle, hitting Castillo in the head. Police believe the shooter was actually targeting one of Castillo’s four passengers.

Critically injured and bleeding from the head, Castillo tried to drive away but slammed his black SUV into a utility pole three blocks away, CBS2 reported.

The NYPD did a sweep of Club Purlieu on Thursday night, citing multiple violations and calling for a temporary closure of the club, which is located in a residential area.

“This is on the heels of numerous incidents last year where three victims [were] stabbed outside the club after another fight and many other injured. And it’s just one thing after another with this location,” Sen. Michael Gianaris told 1010 WINS.

Gianaris hopes to make the temporary closure permanent.

“Those of us who represent the area, we know where the trouble spots are, the police know where the trouble spots are and this location is certainly one of the few places that are constant and chronic problems,” Gianaris said.

“I think we’d be a lot better off if it shut down permanently,” he added.

Club Purlieu is located at 36-04 34th Street in Long Island City.