Employees of Tailgaters Huntsville are expressing frustration after the restaurant abruptly closed without notice, leaving them unpaid, according to an online report.
Ongoing issues with paychecks and communication
According to one employee, Tailgaters Huntsville had long-standing issues with bounced paychecks and lack of communication from the owners.
“They never came in, and when we had grievances about checks bouncing, we’d lose money and incur card fees that were never reimbursed,” she said. Although checks were eventually rewritten, it only happened after persistent complaints.
Sudden closure raises questions
The restaurant abruptly shut its doors on Monday, with police reportedly arriving at the scene. Staff members were sent home, and owner Randy Helton was seen answering questions. An alleged gas leak was cited as the reason for the closure, but employees remain doubtful.
“There was no gas leak,” an employee stated. “I think the owners are trying to protect their reputation because the truth would damage their business.”
Concerns over unpaid tips and future payments
Employees now worry about unpaid tips, which many rely on to make a living. “We haven’t received any of that money,” one worker explained. “We feel entitled to it and are concerned about where it went.”
Randy Helton, the owner, responded to these concerns by attributing the abrupt closure to “legal reasons” and assuring staff their issues would be addressed within the week. He plans to make a formal statement once legal matters are resolved.
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