Dave & Buster’s Co-Founder James ‘Buster’ Coley Dead at 72 of Apparent Suicide

By
David Rufful
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OPINION | This article contains opinion that reflects the author's views.

One of the co-founders of the popular Dave & Buster’s restaurant chain has committed an apparent suicide.

James “Buster” Corley was found with a self-inflicted gunshot wound at his home in Dallas, Texas. It occurred on his birthday.

The first Dave & Buster’s was opened in 1982 in Dallas. James, also known as “Buster,” founded the franchise with his business partner David Corriveau.

Dave reportedly won a coin toss to have his name first. Dave & Buster’s went on to open more than 140 locations.

Police are still investigating the death.

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A rep for D&B confirmed Corleys’s death, telling TMZ he’ll be remembered as “an innovative and creative force” with a “pioneering spirit.”

Cops say they responded to a Dallas, TX home Monday, James’ birthday, to find a man suffering from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. He was transported to a hospital where he died.

The rep for D&B adds … “Buster’s passion for hospitality, his demand for excellence, and the deep care he had for his team members were unparalleled. Our hearts go out to his family at this difficult time and while we will miss his wise counsel and his easy laugh, the legacy he and Dave built endures.”