ROGERS (KFSM) -- The family of a victim in a deadly crash is taking legal action against two businesses they said served alcohol to a man who was visibly intoxicated.
The estate of William Dudzienski filed a lawsuit Tuesday (Jan. 2) against JJ's Grill and Fast Lane Entertainment. Bentonville attorney Bruce Mulkey filed the lawsuit.
The suit claims the businesses over-served 23-year-old Mitchell Ramsey.
A representative for Dudzienski referred questions to Mulkey. Fast Lane declined to comment.
In a statement, JJ's offered its condolences to the deceased and denied any wrongdoing:
“The entire JJ’s family extends its prayers and deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Bill Dudzienski. The loss of his life saddens us all but we know the greatest toll is taken on his family. JJ’s takes very seriously its responsibilities to not over serve alcohol to its guests, nor to serve clearly intoxicated patrons. In fact, a significant amount of JJ’s resources are expended to meet these obligations, including extensive training and educating of JJ’s employees. In the case of Mr. Ramsey, JJ’s met these obligations and will continue to cooperate fully and assist in any way it can with all law enforcement agencies.”
According to police, Ramsey then got behind the wheel and caused a three-car crash that killed Dudzienski, 56, on the afternoon of September 28 at the intersection of North 13th and West Persimmon streets, according to court documents.
The estate is seeking a total of $30 million from each business in damages that resulted from them over-serving Ramsey.
The family is also suing Ramsey for the same amount -- at least $10 million for compensatory damages and $20 million for punitive damages, according to page 10 of the "Complaint and Demand for Jury Trial" court document.
On Tuesday Ramsey entered a not guilty plea on a negligent homicide charge.
Ramsey is scheduled for a court hearing in Benton County in mid-February. He's being held on $100,000 bond in the Benton County jail.