Aurora Firefighter Accused of Punching Bartender Charged with Felonies

Daniel Ahasic.

An Aurora firefighter arrested last month after allegedly punching a female bartender is now facing felony charges.

Kane County prosecutors charged 43-year-old Daniel Ahasic with felony aggravated battery with great bodily harm and aggravated battery in a public place in connection with the allegedly Dec. 22 incident at Stoney’s Tavern near Aurora, the Beacon-News reported.

Ahasic is accused of punching a bartender at Stoney’s, 1031 Ridgeway Ave., after she reportedly asked him not to light a cigar.

Ahasic allegedly punched the woman once in the face, knocking her unconscious and fracturing bones in her face, according to the Beacon.

Bar patrons and employees reportedly came to the bartender’s aid and hit Ahasic, who wound up with a black eye. Police last month said no one would be charged in connection with hitting the firefighter, who was placed on administrative leave.

Ahasic was arrested by police who were patrolling the area near the bar at the time of the incident and initially charged with misdemeanor battery.

Ahasic was nominated for the Firefighter of the Year Award in 2013.