Former Cro-Mags bassist Harley Flanagan allegedly arrested after stabbing at CBGB Fest

7 July 2012 | 6:33 pm | Staff Writer
Originally Appeared In

There are reports that former Cro-Mags bassist Harley Flanagan has been arrested after a stabbing at CBGB Fest. One of the victims is allegedly current Cro-Mags bassist Mike Couls, previously of Cold As Life.

There are reports that former Cro-Mags bassist Harley Flanagan has been arrested after a stabbing at CBGB Fest. One of the victims is allegedly current Cro-Mags bassist Mike Couls, previously of Cold As Life.

Bowery Boogie, who were at the venue, have commented on the incident:

"We were watching the hardcore show at Webster Hall – featuring Sick of it All, Cro-Mags, and VOD – when all hell broke loose upstairs. Harley Flannegan, founding member of the Cro-Mags stumbled into the VIP lounge with a knife. Security mobilized in a hot minute and beat the shit out of him. It took no less than six beefy dudes to control the madness. Blood was everywhere, and bone protruded from his shin.

Cops quickly appeared and took him away in cuffs. Not before he had already stabbed some dude in the chest (said victim left the scene with a bandage over the wound). Because of the violence the rest of the show was canceled. The remaining bands promised to reschedule the show. To be fair, Webster Hall security contained the situation professionally. Lots of drunken, pissed off hardcore fans were on edge after the cops shut down the show, but the scene was cleared without further incident."


Statement from the festival organisers:

We are saddened to learn about the events that occurred last night at Webster Hall. Our primary concern is always the safety and experience of New Yorkers, music fans and the general public. Naturally we will fully cooperate with law enforcement while hoping for the speedy recovery of those injured.

Live music can be incredibly uplifting, empowering and positive. We don’t feel the actions of one person should overshadow four amazing days and nights of events that include today’s historic and unprecedented free concerts in Times Square and Central Park.

-The CBGB Festival