Narrow Escape: Witness Claims DUI Driver Denied Service at Multiple Bars Before Downtown San Jose Crash

A harrowing incident unfolded in downtown San Jose over Memorial Day weekend, as a suspected intoxicated driver, allegedly turned away from multiple establishments, careened into an outdoor dining area, injuring two people. The chilling events leading up to the crash were witnessed by a local business owner, who described a desperate, yet ultimately unsuccessful, attempt to prevent the tragedy.

The drama began in the early hours of Sunday, May 26, when a man, visibly impaired, was reportedly denied service at several popular downtown bars.

David Nguyen, owner of Liquid Restaurant & Lounge, recounted to KRON4 News seeing the man being repeatedly refused entry and service due to his apparent level of intoxication. Nguyen, who had encountered the man at his own establishment and also saw him turned away from Rec Room and Temple Bar & Lounge, became increasingly concerned.

“I actually turned him away from my bar around 1:30, 2 o’clock, and then I saw him get turned away from Rec Room and Temple Bar,” Nguyen explained, detailing how the man then got into a black Mercedes.

Realizing the potential danger, Nguyen rushed out into the street, attempting to intervene. “I literally ran outside, tried to get him to not drive away. I was banging on his window… I told him, ‘Don’t drive home.’ ” But his warnings went unheeded.

Moments later, around 2:15 a.m., Nguyen’s fears materialized.

The very same black Mercedes, driven by the man he had tried to stop, crashed into an outdoor dining area at the intersection of 3rd and Santa Clara Streets. The impact was significant, sending two male victims to the hospital with moderate injuries. Fortunately, the incident occurred during a time when the outdoor dining area was not fully occupied, potentially averting an even greater catastrophe.

San Jose Police confirmed the arrest of the driver on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI) following the collision.

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of impaired driving and the critical role that vigilant bar staff and concerned citizens can play, even when their efforts are tragically overridden by poor decisions.

The event has reignited discussions about public safety in San Jose’s vibrant downtown nightlife district, prompting calls for continued vigilance from both establishments and the community to ensure such preventable tragedies do not recur.

It highlights the challenging responsibility faced by businesses to prevent over-serving and the desperate need for individuals to make responsible choices regarding alcohol consumption and driving.