Elliott Wright has spoken out after the death of his friend and doorman (Picture: Solarpix.com/Getty/@elliottwright_)
Towie’s Elliott Wright has issued a statement following the death of a doorman at his restaurant.
The reality TV star has temporarily closed his Costa del Sol restaurant ‘out of respect’ after Jose Rafael Pisano Pardo, 55, died after he was knocked unconscious when intervening in a fight.
Taking to Instagram Stories, Elliott said he was ‘devastated’.
‘I am absolutely devastated at the loss of Jose – he was a dear friend, and colleague,’ he wrote.
‘The entire team are grieving a wonderful human being and I am supporting them.
‘The restaurant is currently closed whilst we deal with the shock of what happened this weekend.’
He shared his devastation in an Instagram Story (Picture: Instagram)
Reflecting on his relationship with his late pal, Elliott continued: ‘I have known Jose for over a decade – he has been a friendly face ever since I moved to Spain. Over time he became a great friend & colleague.
‘This will take me a long time to get over, if ever – he was a really good guy.
‘We are a family restaurant. We are proud of our reputation – working with great people, creating excellent food and a special atmosphere.’
Elliott added that they ‘do not allow bad behaviour’ and he ‘will not tolerate violence, aggression or rudeness to my brilliant staff.’
Explaining that he was there when Jose was taken to hospital, he added: ‘I stayed with Jose until the ambulance arrived. I’ve also been in constant contact with the family.’
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He concluded by addressing recent graffiti.
‘Today, our restaurant has been vandalised which has left us, already shocked and grieving, in total disbelief.
‘We will not let this senseless vandalism distract us from remembering what a great man Jose was, and how special he was to the Olivia’s family.’
More to come.
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‘I am absolutely devastated at the loss of Jose.’