A GoFundMe campaign has been launched for Bryan Christopher Watson, a 35-year-old security guard who died after being pushed down a staircase while attempting to break up a fight at a Chicago bar earlier this week.
Watson was working security at a venue located at 110 W. Hubbard St. in River North, one of Chicago’s best-known entertainment districts. For readers who may not be familiar with the city, River North is a busy neighborhood just north of downtown Chicago, known for its restaurants, nightlife, and high traffic on weekend nights.
According to reports, the incident happened around 1:20 a.m. Monday morning when Watson stepped in to intervene in a confrontation involving a man and a group of people. Authorities said Watson was pushed down the stairs during the altercation and briefly lost consciousness.
Police said Watson later got back up and walked into another room, but shortly after, he reportedly grabbed his chest and collapsed. He was transported to Northwestern Hospital, where he later died.
The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office has not yet issued a final ruling on Watson’s cause of death. However, the Chicago Sun-Times reported that police described the incident as involving a “traumatic arrest.”
Authorities also said a 32-year-old man believed to have pushed Watson was taken into custody, but later released without charges as the investigation remains ongoing.
Now, Watson’s family is asking the public for help as they prepare to lay him to rest. A GoFundMe fundraiser, started by his brother, has been created to assist with funeral expenses and support the family during this difficult time.
The fundraiser honors Bryan, who many loved ones knew as “BWATTS” and “Sizzle.” Supporters have already begun donating as family, friends, and community members continue mourning a man remembered for stepping in when others needed protection.
For people outside of Chicago, stories like this offer a painful reminder of the real risks security workers take on in nightlife spaces. These are often the people tasked with de-escalating tense situations, protecting guests, and keeping environments safe — often with little recognition until tragedy strikes.
Watson’s death has left behind grieving loved ones and a community now rallying around his family in their time of need.
Those who would like to support can donate here:
In Loving Memory of Bryan “BWATTS Sizzle” Watson – GoFundMe
