Ex-Fire Chief Charged with Felonies After Assault at Local Bar

UPDATE: Former Elmwood Park Fire Chief Michael Terzo is facing serious legal repercussions after allegedly assaulting a bar employee during a late-night incident on August 10, 2023. Newly announced charges include unlawful restraint and aggravated battery, both felonies, following an incident that has sent shockwaves through the community.

In a hearing at Maywood Courthouse, officials revealed that Terzo’s charges have been upgraded, reflecting the severity of the situation. The incident occurred at the Tiny Tap, located at 7648 W. North Ave, where a 24-year-old male employee was allegedly locked in a cooler and assaulted after Terzo reportedly confronted him about his presence in the cooler.

The victim, who has chosen to remain unnamed, shared his disbelief over the altercation, stating, “It’s a neighborhood bar where everybody knows everybody.” He confirmed he is back to work but remains stunned by the events that unfolded.

Around 1:20 a.m. on that fateful night, Terzo allegedly confined the employee inside the cooler, leading to physical injuries. According to police reports, when the employee attempted to exit, Terzo is accused of shoving the door closed, causing bruises to the victim’s face and leg. Following this, Terzo allegedly punched the employee upon his escape, breaking his glasses in the process.

The aggravated battery charge could result in a prison sentence ranging from two to five years. Terzo, who resigned from his position as fire chief immediately after the incident, is a known political supporter of Elmwood Park Mayor Angelo “Skip” Saviano. Interestingly, despite being a Republican, Saviano’s campaign contributed $500 to the campaign of Democratic Cook County State’s Attorney Eileen O’Neill Burke, whose office is now prosecuting Terzo.

During the hearing, the victim was not present but expressed his feelings over the phone, stating he has no desire to engage with Terzo, saying, “I don’t have anything to say.” Reports indicate that Terzo had attempted to reach out to the bar to communicate with the victim post-incident, but the employee declined.

As the community processes this shocking incident, Terzo is scheduled to return to court on October 31. Residents and local officials are keeping a close watch on the situation, with many expressing concern about the implications of such behavior from a figure in a position of authority.

Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops. This case serves as a stark reminder of the potential for violence in everyday situations and raises critical questions about accountability for public officials.