West Hollywood, California – Former NSYNC singer Lance Bass recently announced his departure as a partner from Heart WeHo after a violent altercation outside the club left a customer, Albert Martinez, with serious injuries. The incident, captured on surveillance video, involved a confrontation between Martinez and a bouncer hired through a third-party security company.
In a statement shared on WEHO TIMES’ Instagram account, Lance Bass expressed his shock and dismay over the attack, emphasizing that violence in any form is unacceptable. He highlighted his initial mission when joining Heart WeHo, which was to create a safe and inclusive space for patrons, making the incident particularly distressing for him.
According to the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department, the altercation occurred when Martinez attempted to enter the nightclub without proper identification. The security guard on duty refused him entry, leading to a verbal and physical confrontation that resulted in Martinez being punched and sustaining serious injuries. The suspect was subsequently arrested for battery causing great bodily harm.
Martinez’s family has reported that he is making progress in his recovery, having regained consciousness after being hospitalized. However, he is still undergoing therapy and is expected to remain in the hospital for an additional period.
Bass’s decision to step away from Heart WeHo comes amidst rumors of the club being up for sale, adding uncertainty to its future. The incident has drawn attention to the importance of maintaining safety and vigilance in nightlife establishments to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s West Hollywood Station Detective to assist in the ongoing investigation. As the community reflects on the incident, there is a growing awareness of the need to prioritize safety and prevent violence in social settings to ensure the well-being of all individuals involved.