Amateur detectives will have an opportunity to examine evidence, question their assumptions and attempt to solve a fictional cold case during Crime and Cocktails: The Emily Hemmingway Case at The Clubhouse Member’s Lounge in downtown Fayetteville on July 31.

Crime and Cocktails is an interactive mystery series that combines criminal investigation exercises with cocktails, food and conversation. Rather than watching actors perform a traditional murder mystery, participants become members of an investigative team and work directly with case materials.

The Emily Hemmingway case is part of a new chapter in The Clubhouse’s history as an event venue. The lounge is connected to Washington Apparel Company, which opened its first downtown Fayetteville storefront in 2020. Founder Eric Washington previously described The Clubhouse as a members-only space where entrepreneurs, professionals, clients and guests could network, socialize and unwind.

The Emily Hemmingway case centers on the death of a promising young online personality who was killed shortly after attending a prestigious awards ceremony. The original investigation failed to identify the killer, and the evidence was eventually archived.

Years later, the cold case has been reopened.

Guests will receive access to the original case file, which contains police reports, photographs, witness statements, receipts, digital records and forensic evidence. Participants must examine the documents, identify inconsistencies and connect details that investigators may have overlooked.

Professionally produced video segments will introduce suspects, witnesses and additional information as the investigation progresses. Archived recordings, online activity and interviews will help guests uncover possible motives, concealed relationships and contradictions within the evidence.

The experience is designed to reward careful observation and collaboration. Guests will work with other participants to develop theories and determine which pieces of evidence are relevant. The case may appear straightforward at first, but each document has the potential to change the direction of the investigation.

A curated cocktail menu prepared by The Clubhouse bartender will accompany the mystery. The drinks and menu selections are intended to support the atmosphere of the evening while giving guests time to discuss their findings and compare theories.

The Clubhouse’s concept was established before its formal community introduction. The venue had already hosted private gatherings when it held its grand opening Nov. 7, 2025. Located on the sixth floor of the historic Market Square Business Center at 100 Hay St., the lounge was created as an intimate setting for conversation, cocktails, professional development and themed entertainment.

Its event history has included curated events that appeal to business owners as well as the arts and culture focused of Fayetteville. Local tastemakers have enjoyed chef led dinners, games, author discussions, professional networking, and wellness activities.

The Clubhouse also operates in support of the INCspire Foundation. According to the venue, Clubhouse revenue and proceeds from private rentals support the nonprofit’s mentorship and career building programs for young designers, entrepreneurs and professionals.

The Crime and Cocktails experience lasts approximately five hours and is held in person. To join this elevated ‘Clue’ experience, contact The Clubhouse Member’s Lounge at clubhouse@washingtonapparel.com or 910-996-2977.