Nightclub Owner Charged With Arson in Nashville

Authorities booked three men following a fire that damaged La Danse Nightclub and two neighboring businesses.

Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Financial Crime

Nightclub Owner Charged With Arson in Nashville

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Nashville nightclub owner Keroles Karlas and two associates were charged with arson after a fire erupted at La Danse Nightclub on May 11. The blaze also caused damage to the adjacent Puff and Hit Smoke Shop and the Red Phone Booth.

Why it matters

The arson charges follow a period of turbulence at the venue, which had already announced its closure on May 5 following a separate shooting incident. Investigators determined the fire was intentionally set in two distinct, non-connecting areas of the property.

Keroles Karlas, Ashraf Salem, and Mina Baslyous were booked into the Downtown Detention Center with bail set at $500,000 each. Investigators identified two separate non-connecting areas where the fires were intentionally ignited.

The players

Keroles Karlas

He is the owner of the La Danse Nightclub and was taken into custody on arson charges.

Traivon Bohannon

He was previously charged with homicide and aggravated assault regarding a separate shooting on May 3.

Ashraf Salem

He is an associate of the nightclub owner who was booked into the Downtown Detention Center.

Mina Baslyous

He is an associate of the nightclub owner who was booked into the Downtown Detention Center.

The details

Security footage reportedly captured three individuals exiting a neighboring business shortly after 2 a.m. while observing the building until smoke appeared at ground level. No injuries were reported as a result of the fire, which occurred shortly after the nightclub's permanent closure.

May 3: Three individuals were shot outside the nightclub location.
May 5: The club announced its closure effective immediately.
May 11: A fire caused damage to the club and two neighboring businesses.
September 24, 2026: Authorities published a report detailing the arson charges.

Legal Context

This case follows a pattern set by the closure of La Danse Nightclub following the May 3 shooting, as mounting safety issues led to the venue's ultimate destruction. The subsequent arson charges reflect the high priority local law enforcement places on recurring criminal activity at nightlife venues.

The incident resulted in property damage to two neighboring local businesses, the Puff and Hit Smoke Shop and the Red Phone Booth. Residents and local business owners may see an increased police presence in the area as the investigation into the fire and the recent shooting continues.

The takeaway

Property owners should remain vigilant regarding security measures, especially when ceasing operations at a high-traffic venue. Maintaining active surveillance and securing property is essential to preventing criminal liability during a closure transition.