The Texas music scene nearly lost one of its most treasured watering holes this past weekend. Early Saturday morning, someone tried to set fire to Riley’s Tavern, the legendary Comal County bar that’s been a staple of Texas culture for generations.
Security footage shows a man pouring fluid on an outside wall just after 4 a.m. and then tossing a flaming object at the building. Thankfully, the damage was only superficial, but the close call has rattled the community.
For those who may not know, Riley’s Tavern isn’t just any bar. Dating back to the 19th century, it earned its spot in history as the first business in Texas licensed to sell alcohol after Prohibition ended in 1933. Ever since, it’s been a place where locals, out-of-towners, and musicians of every stripe gather for cold beer, great company, and live music five nights a week.
Owner Joel Hofmann called the attempted arson “a very, very sad thing,” noting that it wasn’t just about his business; families were asleep in nearby Airbnbs when the fire started, and the act put lives at risk. He also pointed to the ripple effect something like this could have on his employees, his regulars, and the countless Texas artists who have made Riley’s part of their story.
Comal County Sheriff office is asking anyone with any information to please call Comal County Crime Stoppers tip line at 830-620-8477 or online at Comalcrimestoppers.org and report what you know!
In the meantime, Riley’s doors are still open, the music is still playing, and the community is rallying around a Texas original that has weathered everything from Prohibition to attempted arson.
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