ELMIRA, N.Y. (WETM) – The New York State Liquor Authority tells 18 News they have opened an investigation into The Branch Office after one person was fatally stabbed and several fights broke out the morning of Dec. 19, 2021.

Elmira Police, who the state liquor authority say have been contacted by their investigators, say 35-year-old Jeremy Scharborough was inside the bar when several fights broke out inside. The bar decided to shut down due to the fights, which continued outside.

Police say Scharborough encountered another man outside when an argument began and Scharborough was fatally stabbed. The two had not encountered each other inside the bar prior to the fight and police said there is no indication that the second man was ever inside the bar.

Elmira Police were dispatched to the bar at 406 W Washington. Ave early Sunday morning and said they observed at least 75 people in the street in front of The Branch Office. Officers located Scharborough with a substantial injury to his neck and a bystander began CPR.

Scharborough was transported to Arnot Ogden Medical Center and was later pronounced dead. 

Police say more fights broke out while they were on the scene attempting to assist Scharborough.

Anyone with any information regarding the incident is asked to call (607)737-5626 or (607)271-HALT.