Knockers customer sues after getting struck multiple times on face and head

A man has filed suit against the Collinsville bar where he says employees failed to protect him from an attack by a patron.

Steven D. Skoklo claims he was enjoying an alcoholic beverage at Knockers Bar and Grill located at 834 Morrison Ave. in Collinsville on Oct. 21, 2007, when the incident occurred.

"The Plaintiff was enjoying the atmosphere for the evening when other employees and patrons approached him and an argument ensued and the Plaintiff was struck multiple times upon his face, head and body which resulted in serious and permanent injuries," the suit filed Oct. 20 in Madison County Circuit Court states.

Defendant Paul Qualls was responsible for attacking Skoklo, according to the complaint.

Because of the assault, Skoklo claims he experienced great pain and anguish, incurred medical costs and lost large sums of money.

Before the attack on Skoklo, numerous altercations had occurred at the bar, according to the complaint.

In addition to Knockers Bar and Grill, Skoklo names Gary Lutman, owner of the bar, as defendants.

Lutman negligently failed to provide adequate security to break up fights, failed to notify police when a patron attacked another patron, failed to warn customers of a dangerous condition and allowed his employees and patrons to cause physical harm to others, the complaint says.

In the four-count suit, Skoklo is seeking judgment of more than $200,000 for medical costs, damages and legal services he incurred, plus costs and other relief the court deems just.

Morgan Scroggins of Scroggins Law Office in Granite City will be representing it.

Madison County Circuit Court case number: 09-L-1119.