Drunk Driver’s Family Seeks Accountability from Manhattan Bars

The family of Turkish immigrants tragically killed by a drunk driver is holding three downtown Manhattan bars accountable for the incident.

Mahabubu Ali, a resident of Astoria, was reportedly “visibly drunk” during his visits to barcades like Wall Street in Harry’s and Harry in Kron.

Despite his obvious state, court documents reveal that these establishments continued to serve him drinks, ultimately leading to a blood alcohol content of .158%, which is nearly double the legal limit for operating a vehicle.

Ali, 28, struck Abdul Hekim Esiyok as he was crossing Third Avenue near East 21st Avenue in Gramercy, according to police reports.

Ali’s vehicle collided with an 18-year-old cyclist, two pedestrians on the sidewalk, and a parked van before finally coming to a stop. He was arrested on-site.

On the day of the incident, June 4, 2023, Ali had gone out to brunch with friends in the financial district around noon and continued drinking throughout the day. The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office provided this information.

Esiyok, just 23 and new to New York, was rushed to Bellevue Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

The family is currently pursuing unspecified damages from the three bars, claiming in a Monday lawsuit that they violated New York’s Dram Shop Act.

“The family is in ruins,” stated attorney Samantha Rafaelson, who is representing Esiyok’s relatives. “They still can’t believe it.”

Ali has not entered a plea regarding multiple charges, which include manslaughter, operation of a vehicle while intoxicated, and assault. The case remains ongoing.

Rafaelson reflected on Esiyok’s dreams, stating, “He had an American dream. He came here, worked hard, and wanted to provide for his loved ones, only to be killed senselessly.”

Neither Downtown Barcade, Harry’s, nor Kron have responded to requests for comments on the situation.

Ali’s criminal attorney has also chosen not to comment at this time.