Lake Worth Beach, Florida – The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO) has announced two arrests in relation to a recent shooting at a local bar that resulted in the deaths of two men. The incident took place at the Rock Irish Pub on Lake Avenue in Lake Worth Beach early Tuesday morning.
The alleged shooter, 23-year-old Morey S. Pinard III, faces charges of two counts of second-degree murder with a firearm and two counts of attempted murder with a firearm. Pinard’s alleged accomplice, 19-year-old Michael Vititoe, has been charged with simple battery and accessory after the fact in a homicide. These charges suggest Vititoe may have been involved in a physical altercation before the shooting.
Both Pinard and Vititoe have been booked into the Palm Beach County Jail. The altercation that led to the shooting occurred around 1 a.m., leaving four men injured. Two of the victims, Christopher Allen, 33, and Stephen Stratis, 24, died at the scene, while the other two were taken to a nearby hospital – one in critical condition and the other in stable condition.
According to a witness, the victims were coworkers from the Old Key Lime House in Lantana, who were having a Christmas party at Lilo’s Streetfood and Bar before moving to The Rock Irish Pub to continue the festivities. The tragedy has shocked the local community and raised concerns about safety in the area.
The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, with authorities working to determine the motive behind the violence. As details continue to emerge, residents are urged to come forward with any information that may assist law enforcement in their efforts to bring justice to the victims and their families. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of addressing gun violence and ensuring the safety of all individuals in the community.
In the wake of this tragic event, the Lake Worth Beach community is coming together to support one another and honor the memory of the victims. Local authorities are calling for unity and strength as they work towards healing and justice in the aftermath of this senseless act of violence.