Boston Pizza location tied to fatal car crash to have their liquor licence revoked in St. Catharines

A St. Catharines Boston Pizza location has had its liquor license revoked after being directly linked to a fatal car crash.

In a recent investigation published by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) yesterday (Oct. 10), it was concluded that the Boston Pizza at 333 Ontario Street in St. Catharines is no longer fit to serve alcoholic beverages.

Details surrounding the location’s current suspension relate to several suspected violations of the Liquor Licence and Control Act — a strict policy delegating how Ontario institutions serve alcohol within the legal framework of the province.

One of these violations — according to the AGCO — resulted in patrons being overserved alcohol, and then leaving visibly intoxicated which eventually led to a fatal vehicle collision on December 18, 2023.

“Bars and restaurants have a duty to serve responsibly in order to keep their communities safe and avoid preventable harm. Responsible service saves lives and prevents tragedies like this one. The AGCO will continue to enforce our rigorous standards and hold licensees accountable,” Dr. Karin Schnarr, CEO of the AGCO in an official statement.

As a byproduct of their involvement in the collision — alongside several other infractions related to it — the St. Catharines Boston Pizza location has been hit with a Notice of Proposal (NOP) for a 60-day liquor sales licence suspension.

For more information on this case, and liquor laws in Ontario, visit the AGCO’s official website.