FORMER TURKEY LEG HUT OWNER PLEADS GUILTY IN BAR 5015 ARSON CASE

HOUSTON, TX — One of Houston's most recognizable restaurant figures has now admitted his role in a federal arson conspiracy tied to the 2020 fire that destroyed Bar 5015.

Lyndell “Lynn” Price, former owner of the once-popular Turkey Leg Hut, appeared in federal court Thursday and pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit arson, becoming the third of five defendants to enter a guilty plea in the case.

According to federal prosecutors, Price admitted under oath that he directed individuals involved in the plot to set fire to Bar 5015, a nightclub located on Almeda Road near Houston's Third Ward. Prosecutors say the group transported gasoline to the business before igniting the blaze in the early morning hours.

During the hearing, Price acknowledged receiving a phone call shortly before 5 a.m. informing him the fire had been carried out. When questioned by the judge about the call, Price reportedly stated he was "not awake yet" when the notification came in.

The case stems from a fire that caused extensive damage to the nightclub and drew significant public attention throughout Houston. Federal investigators later connected multiple individuals to the alleged arson conspiracy.

When asked how he wished to plead, Price responded directly:

"Guilty, sir."

While admitting his involvement in the conspiracy, Price denied allegations that he paid a co-defendant to carry out the arson. Federal prosecutors indicated additional testimony and evidence related to that claim may be presented as the case continues.

Price is scheduled to be sentenced on September 25, 2026.

The guilty plea marks another significant development in a case that has remained under federal scrutiny for years and continues to attract attention due to the high-profile individuals involved.

The SouthSide Signal will continue following this story as additional court proceedings unfold.

Source: Federal Court Proceedings, Houston Division. 🚨⚖️