Just when you thought it was safe to be a Flyers fan again, a wholenew round of drama is opening upthat stems from the brutal beat-down a New York Rangers fan sufferedin front of Geno’s last yearafter the NHL Winter Classic. Neal Auricchio, the New Jersey police officer and Iraq war vet who took the beating, is filing a civil suit against his confessed and convicted attacker, Dennis Veteri. According to theBusiness Journal, he’s seeking compensatory and punitive damages from Veteri. But in a new twist, Auricchio also names South Philly Bar & Grill in his complaint. Just prior to punching and beating the off-duty officer, Veteri settled up a hefty tab at the bar. Lawyers for Auricchio say that means SPB&G; violated Pennsylvania’s liquor liability law, which prohibits bars from serving those who are visibly intoxicated. Here’s hoping the fighting stays on the ice this hockey season. [PBJ]
