NEW YORK, NY – A group of clubbers in Brooklyn, New York have launched a campaign for increased security outside the Brooklyn Mirage club, following two deaths and an alleged kidnapping of individuals leaving the venue.
The incidents, which occurred over the span of several weeks, have sparked speculation on social media about potential connections. However, the police have not confirmed any links between the cases. One of the victims, 27-year-old John Castic, was last seen leaving Brooklyn Mirage at 3:00 a.m. on July 29, and was later found dead in Newtown Creek on August 1. Another victim, 27-year-old psychologist Karl Clemente, went missing after leaving the same venue on June 11, and was also found dead in the same creek on June 16. The third case involved the alleged kidnapping of 32-year-old Michael Bautista, an ophthalmologist and cataract surgeon.
Since these incidents, an online campaign has been initiated to urge the police and Brooklyn Mirage to enhance lighting outside the venue and to increase policing around unlicensed taxis in the area. Additionally, an online letter addressed to Councilwoman Jennifer Gutierrez, whose district includes the music venue and the creek, has been circulating on social media.
Gutiérrez expressed her concern about the incidents, stating that it has not only impacted Williamsburg, but also nearby areas such as Ridgewood and Bushwick. She also noted that her constituents have flooded her inbox with concerns, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive rundown from the NYPD on the sequence of events and the circumstances surrounding the incidents.
Furthermore, reports from local outlets indicate that neither the venue nor the City Hall has indicated whether any improvements will be made in response to the incidents. The community is left grappling with uncertainty as they seek reassurance about safety measures in the area.