Underage drinking bust at Tempe Tavern after fatal hit-and-run crash

The Tempe Police Department recently shared details about a significant crackdown on suspected underage drinking at a Tempe establishment. In a recent incident at Tempe Tavern, located near McClintock Drive and Apache Boulevard, law enforcement found 249 underage individuals inside. Several arrests were made for offenses like having fake IDs, underage drinking, and providing false information. Police decided to investigate the bar following a fatal crash involving a 19-year-old driver in the area. The driver was involved in a hit-and-run following a crash with a motorcyclist. Detectives linked the driver to a visit to Tempe Tavern before the accident. This incident, along with ongoing concerns about underage entry to the bar, prompted Tempe PD to conduct two operations. The first operation in April resulted in over 170 arrests, while the second operation on November 20 led to the arrest of nearly 250 individuals on various charges. Fire inspectors noted at least one fire code violation during their inspection, and the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control is conducting a separate investigation. Tempe Police Chief Ken McKoy emphasized that these operations aim to uphold safety, accountability, and prevent tragedies by ensuring compliance and protecting the community.