Posting threatening to spread COVID-19 on The Friendly Spot forces bar to close, involves SAPD



The Friendly Spot closed immediately Tuesday after a man threatened on social media to appear on the Southtown staple to spread the coronavirus.

Jody Bailey Newman, the owner of the bar, said she learned of the threats Tuesday, a day after the posts were posted on social media. She said the ice house was closed immediately, a disinfection team was called and also the San Antonio Police Department.



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The bar was reported via Twitter on Tuesday night with screenshots of an Instagram post created by an unidentified man who claimed to have tested positive for the virus.

“As I’m positive, f,” says the publication. “Come catch him at The Friendly Spot.”

SAPD said it is aware of the incident, but that a report is not ready. Authorities did not comment on another claim that the person was seen at a local Gold’s Gym.

In April, Christopher C. Pérez, 39, was arrested by federal agents in San Antonio after being accused of spreading similar claims on social media in an unrelated case. He was charged with the federal crime of communicating false information or deception related to weapons of mass destruction. Pérez faces up to five years in prison, according to a San Antonio Express-News report.


The Friendly Spot said staff did not recognize the man in question. The team also searched for credit card records.

“We have no indication that he has followed through on his threat to be COVID-19 positive with the intention of expanding into our business,” Newman said.

The Friendly Spot at 943 S. Alamo St. reopened at noon Wednesday. Masks are required.

Madalyn Mendoza covers news and pure pop culture for MySA.com | [email protected] | @maddyskye