Restaurant apologizes for asking San Antonio officer with gun to leave

Fogo de Chao Brazilian Steakhouse released a statement apologizing after a manager at its San Antonio location mistakenly asked a local law enforcement officer to leave the restaurant Saturday night because he was carrying a gun. less Fogo de Chao Brazilian Steakhouse released a statement apologizing after a manager at its San Antonio location mistakenly asked a local law enforcement officer to leave the restaurant Saturday night because he ... more Image 1 of / 1 Caption Close Restaurant apologizes for asking San Antonio officer with gun to leave 1 / 1 Back to Gallery

Fogo de Chao Brazilian Steakhouse released a statement apologizing after a manager at its San Antonio location mistakenly asked a local law enforcement officer to leave the restaurant Saturday night because he was carrying a gun.

The manager asked the San Antonio police officer, who was in soft uniform, displaying his badge and carrying his duty weapon, to leave because the establishment has a "no guns" company policy.

However, under Texas state law, an off-duty peace officer is allowed to carry his or her weapon in public establishments such as hotels, restaurants, sports venues or shops.

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According to witnesses at the restaurant, the officer was with his family having a birthday dinner. The officer left the restaurant after the manager insisted. His family stayed behind to sing "Happy Birthday" to a family member.

Fogo de Chao released a statement and said it has reached out to both the officer and the precinct.

"We sincerely apologize to the San Antonio Police Department and the officer in question for the incident that occurred at our restaurant. Unfortunately, a member of our team made the wrong call in San Antonio," the statement read. "We are working hard to address and correct this unfortunate lapse in judgment. We will address the policy internally and make sure our team members are clear. We support, respect and appreciate everything our law enforcement does to keep each and every one of us safe, day in and day out."

Priscilla Aguirre is a breaking news reporter and general assignment writer. Read her on our breaking news site, mySA.com, and on our subscriber site, ExpressNews.com | priscilla.aguirre@express-news.net | @CillaAguirre