A tragic incident at Mansion Live nightclub in Stone Park, Illinois has sparked public outrage and legal action after 21-year-old Zulma Calderon-Pacheco was fatally shot by a security guard during a chaotic altercation on the dance floor. The guard, Kevin Henley Jr., who was not licensed to carry a firearm or work as a security officer, allegedly discharged his weapon during a scuffle, striking Calderon-Pacheco in the face.
Henley has been charged with involuntary manslaughter and unlawful use of a weapon. He has since been released on electronic monitoring but remains in custody due to a probation violation. The victim’s family has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the nightclub, the security firm, and Henley, citing gross negligence, lack of proper training, and a failure to maintain a safe environment. The lawsuit also highlights the club’s history of violence and insufficient use of metal detectors.
Amid calls for justice, over 5,400 people have signed a petition demanding the club be permanently shut down. The case has raised serious questions about nightlife security standards and accountability in Illinois.
Personal
My life revolves around music and specifically Mexican music such as Banda, Duranguense, Norteño. With family and friends going to bailes (AKA music concerts) I have experienced security and some insight into how local Chicagoland clubs operate.
As you can expect, money is priority like maintaining positive rapport. Unfortunately, some cut corners or lack education in basic Human Resources and Business Management.
Even after security pat downs, I personally was able to get in a knife which is absolutely not a great idea. However, the countless times proved there’s always more one could do to secure joy and safety. If you’re a female, sometimes a female security is on-duty or all-in-all no check is required. Women could potentially hold other things such as weapons and drugs for their partners and bypass security.
Hiring practices – some club owners start off as musicians, DJ, joint-family venture, etc. Often it’s about who-you-know that advances your opportunities. Remember, staffing shortages are affecting all industries. This can lead to on-the-spot hiring referrals because the place needs to be staffed for an event – ASAP. No background checks, no other references, no drug testing, no real standards for evaluations. When do owners get educated? When something bad happens and law enforcement is involved.
In an industry meant to prioritize safety during entertainment events, how can communities and lawmakers ensure that those entrusted with protecting patrons are properly vetted, trained, and held accountable before more lives are lost?
I believe government could set more regulations to prevent this from happening again.
