A 43-year-old man was stabbed to death in a Pilsen bar early Saturday.
Rodolfo "Rudy" Avina was inside Simone's Bar in the 900 block of West 18th Street when he was stabbed in the neck about 12:40 a.m., authorities said.
Avina, of the 700 block of North Franklin Street, died at the scene, according to the Cook County medical examiner's office.
Avina, a regular at Simone’s, was sitting at the bar when a man walked up and slashed Avina's throat in front of other customers, manager Christopher Muscat told NBC5 Chicago.
Cafe Jumping Bean at 1439 W. 18th St. posted the following statement on it's Facebook page:
There are never enough words to express the intense pain and sorrow that we feel in losing a loved one, and more so when we feel great injustice in this loss. It is difficult to comprehend the senseless violence that contradicts the love, joy, and hope we work so hard to build each and every day in our community...
When Cafe Jumping Bean opened its doors just over 21years ago, Rudy Avina, who lived in this very building, welcomed us into the neighborhood and taste-tested for for us what would become the Cafe's signature house blend. From that moment forward, Rudy was not just a "Regular", but grew to become one our most beloved and trusted friends. When you've been in business this long, your long-standing customers become your family. I know that I speak on behalf of all our Jumping Bean family, who over so many years had the honor and joy of witnessing and experiencing the absolute inspirational energy that Rudy exuded. He was an exceptionally loving father to his three wonderful children, Mia, Sofia, and Carlos; crazy about his love, Erin; a successful small-business owner; and a brother and dear friend to us all. Rudy was truly, one of the friendliest, kindest people anyone could ever meet, who never hesitated for a second to help someone in need. His profound kindness, his joy for love and life will stay with us forever. We express our sincerest and loving condolences to his family and all who were blessed to know him.
It's hard to believe we won't see you in the mornings for your coffee w/ice cubes and bagel. Thanks for all the years of love and spirit; for your smile, your "homie" discount, your camaraderie as a brother, and your kindness. See you on the other side, brotha-man. We love you, and will miss you.
As word of Avina's death spread, friends took to social media to express their condolences:
The bar has two rooms, two bars, a performance area and numerous booths, according to Simone's website.
Simone's is a unique bar and grill located in the Pilsen neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois. It's a great place to grab a craft beer, cocktail and quality grub. We are also proud to feature local and national music talent, gallery and private events.
Police said a suspect was taken into custody, but no charges have been filed as of Saturday afternoon.
Area Central detectives are investigating.
-- Sun-Times Staff, Network Video Productions