In a dramatic legal battle unfolding in San Francisco, a plaintiff has filed a lawsuit against a local arcade bar, alleging severe injuries from an incident that escalated into violence. On February 14, 2025, Elijah Efanov lodged a complaint in the Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco, targeting Emporium SF, LLC and its employee Vara Fernandez among others. The case revolves around allegations of battery, negligence, premises liability, and negligent hiring practices.
Elijah Efanov claims that on November 4, 2023, he was brutally attacked at Emporium SF's arcade bar located at 616 Divisadero Street. According to the complaint, Efanov suffered significant injuries including traumatic brain injury and post-concussion syndrome after being assaulted by Fernandez and unidentified security personnel. "Defendant VARA FERNANDEZ initiated the attack," the document states, further alleging that other bouncers joined in holding and assaulting Efanov. The plaintiff accuses Emporium SF of failing to ensure adequate safety measures and training for their staff despite knowing the venue's history of violent incidents.
The lawsuit highlights multiple failures on the part of Emporium SF to maintain a safe environment for patrons. It alleges that prior to this incident, the defendants were aware of "actual and potentially violent" activities occurring at their establishment but neglected to take necessary precautions such as proper security measures or adequate staff training. The complaint argues that these oversights directly contributed to the harm Efanov experienced.
Efanov is seeking comprehensive relief from the court including general damages for his injuries, medical expenses incurred due to the assault, loss of earnings capacity, and punitive damages aimed at penalizing the defendants for their alleged misconduct. Additionally, he demands compensation for loss of consortium—a claim recognizing how his injuries have impacted personal relationships—and interest on any awarded judgment starting from when an offer to compromise was filed.
Representing Elijah Efanov are attorneys Robert E. Cartwright Jr. and Andrew W. Ratto from The Cartwright Law Firm Inc., based in San Francisco. The case is presided over by judges yet unnamed under Case No. CGC-25-622891.