In a shocking and violent incident at the Casa Diablo Vegan Strip Club in Portland, Payton Lathan, a longtime dancer at the establishment, allegedly stabbed Duncan Allen, a fellow employee, on December 8, 2023. Lathan reportedly attacked Allen without provocation while he was preparing for work, stabbing him three times—once in the armpit and twice in the back. Surveillance footage from the club shows the graphic attack, which Allen described as feeling like a “500-pound man” punching him in the back. It was only after taking a breath that Allen realized he had collapsed a lung.
Lathan, who had worked at the club for over a decade, fled the scene after the attack but was soon arrested nearby, hiding in bushes. She allegedly told police that she planned to plead insanity, claiming that Allen was a drug dealer—though there was no evidence to support this. Additionally, Lathan stated that she had not consumed drugs or alcohol at the time of the attack.
Allen was able to flee to the kitchen, where staff called 911 and helped to apply pressure to his wounds. Despite the severity of the attack, he remained calm and was able to provide details to police once they arrived. Lathan was later charged with attempted murder, aggravated murder, first-degree assault, second-degree assault, and unlawful use of a weapon. She was held without bail, and during her first court appearance on December 17, she pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Club owner Johnny Diablo Žūklė described Lathan as someone who had “a little off” but never exhibited violent tendencies before, suggesting that Lathan may have suffered a severe mental health crisis leading to the stabbing. Allen himself expressed concerns that Lathan’s mental health issues were not properly addressed before the incident. He believes the attack was premeditated, as Lathan’s actions were deliberate and carried out with a knife. Despite the traumatic experience, Allen shared that he feels more alive than ever and is focused on moving forward with his life and music career.