Bar Settles in Drowning Case, Implements Safety Measures

0:00The parents of 20-year-old University of Alabama student Garrett Walker have settled their lawsuit against the Grey Lady Bar in Tuscaloosa. Walker drowned in the Black Warrior River back on November 9, 2021, after a night out. His blood alcohol level was 0.212, nearly three times the legal limit, and the bar kept serving him despite his intoxication. The suit accused the bar of breaking-stay laws by serving alcohol to underage and drunk patrons, including bar staff drinking with customers. It was filed on the one-year anniversary of his death, and later expanded to target Delta Chief Eternity's national group, though the local chapter was. Not included. That part of the case continues. Walker's family expressed relief through their attorney, noting the settlement brings real changes to local bars even if it can't bring him back. They also send sympathies to the family of another 20-year-old Alabama student, Jimmy Gracie, who recently drowned in Spain under similar circumstances after leaving a bar. Key reforms from the deal include annual staff training on safe alcohol service, new ID scanning

1:04tech, a ban on employees drinking on the job, and campaigns to fight underage drinking. The bar will push other spots to join these safety efforts, too. While Tuscaloosa remains painful for the walkers, they are hopeful these steps spread wider and prevent more tragedies. The family still seeks details on Walker's last hours from anyone who might know. From your city, powered by AI. This is Birmingham News Today. I'm Corey with The Story.