NEW YORK — – A nightclub owner is suing Sean "Puffy" Combs and three other men for $1.8 million, saying business deteriorated after the four were involved in a fracas there.
Michael Bergos, owner of Club New York, says in his suit filed Wednesday the negative publicity after the Dec. 27, 1999, shooting caused attendance to drop and corporate clients to cancel events.
The club has sustained damages exceeding $600,000, the suit says.
"I'm just disgusted, basically," Bergos, 34, said. "There were damages to the club, but the main thing is my name."
The club shooting happened after a man insulted Combs and threw money in his face. Combs protege, Jamal "Shyne" Barrow, allegedly pulled a gun and opened fire, hitting three people. Barrow, 21, has been indicted on an attempted murder charge.
Combs fled with girlfriend Jennifer Lopez, and bodyguard Anthony "Wolf" Jones. The vehicle was driven by Wardel Fenderson.
Bergos' lawsuit also names Barrow, Jones, Fenderson and Bad Boy Entertainment, Combs' music production company, as defendants.
Combs' lawyer, Benjamin Brafman, said he had not seen the lawsuit.
"It never ceases to amaze me how many people are seeking to financially capitalize on Mr. Combs' wealth and celebrity status, despite knowing beyond question that he had nothing whatsoever to do with the shooting in Club New York."
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