A New Bloomfield man has been charged with two counts of first-degree assault following a confrontation outside a Jefferson City bar Thursday night.
David Cigala Jr., 35, is also charged with unlawful possession of a firearm, armed criminal action and possession of a defaced firearm.
Witnesses told police Cigala had entered J. Pfenny’s on East High Street visibly intoxicated, according to a Jefferson City Police Department probable cause statement. He allegedly threatened the victim, saying he would shoot them, then went outside waiting for the victim to exit the bar.
When the victim went outside, Cigala came up and pushed up against the victim, holding a black pistol and again threatening to shoot the victim. A witness managed to disarm Cigala, who then pulled out a fixed-blade knife from his belt and pressed it against the victim.
The victim was able to get away and call 911. Officers arrived and took Cigala into custody.
The pistol was found to be loaded with 9mm ammunition, and it was defaced with the serial number obliterated beyond recognition.
Cigala denied being at the bar or knowing the victim.
Authorities said Cigala is a known gang member. As of Friday afternoon, he was being held in the Cole County Jail without bond.