SLO firefighter investigated after bar brawl 

A San Luis Obispo Fire Department engineer is under investigation after a late-night bar brawl that put another man in the hospital.

Police responded to a report of an altercation just before midnight on June 4 at Pappy McGregor’s Pub and Grill on Monterey Street in San Luis Obispo. Though official details are slim, what is known is that Ryan Mason, an 11-year veteran of the SLO Fire Department, was involved in a fight that resulted in another man being taken by ambulance to the hospital.

There were no arrests, but authorities are investigating the incident.

The extent of the unidentified person’s injuries wasn’t confirmed as of press time, but according to one witness—who asked not to be named—“the guy got the shit kicked out of him.”

According to witnesses’ accounts, Mason was at McGregor’s attending a wedding party; at some point, he became engaged in an argument with another member of the party.

“Yeah, they knew each other; they’re friends—or were, anyway,” one witness said.

According to the witness, the fight took place in the bathroom, and he was alerted to it only after a staff member heard the commotion and entered the bathroom to break it up. He added that Mason exited the bathroom looking “OK.”

Mason referred requests for comment to his attorney, Chris Casciola.

“My understanding is there is a percipient witness [to the altercation], and that witness will testify that my client acted solely in self defense,” Casciola said.

All inquiries to the fire department were referred to the SLO Police Department. According to Capt. Chris Staley, the department is still investigating the incident; no charges had been recommended to the District Attorney’s Office as of press time. Staley said he couldn’t comment further because the investigation is still open. Mason remains on duty at the fire department.

City officials who spoke with New Times were aware of the incident, but said they were told not to speak with the press.