Police investigate local bar's involvement in death of 7-year-old

SALISBURY, N.C. — Salisbury police said tips have been pouring in about 7-year-old A’yanna Allen's murder.

Police announced an unprecedented $20,000 reward in the case.

Officers believe A'yanna's death is linked to another deadly shooting at a local bar, Firewater, the same morning.

A branch of the State Bureau of Investigation is looking into whether that bar should be punished.

Channel 9 has not been able to get a statement from Firewater.

Some neighbors said the night spot was packed early Sunday when 22-year-old Sharod Mathis was shot in the parking lot.

"The chaos was driven outside and then that happened,” one neighbor said.

Three hours later, A'yanna was shot to death while sleeping at her grandmother's home.

Police believe the crimes are connected.

Alcohol law enforcement officers are investigating whether the Firewater incident played a role in that first shooting.

"We are trying to determine if the ownership is maintaining control and they are responsible and if they should continue to sell alcohol,” one officer said.

Justin Heilig frequents Firewater and knows it to be a safe place.

"No, 'cause I know them and I go there and there ain't no way in the world. They frisk you. Metal detectors and all," Heilig said.

If ALE finds the restaurant was somehow at fault for that first shooting, their liquor license could be suspended.

In addition to the Firewater investigation, ALE agents said they’re working with the SBI and police to solve both of those shootings.

Cox Media Group