Shooting at The AMLI Lenox Apartments Leaves One Dead

Could a fatal shooting at AMLI Lenox apartments be the offshoot of negligent security by the building's owners? 

A shooting at the AMLI Lenox apartments in Buckhead Heights has left one man dead, the Atlanta Police reports. 

Police responded to the apartment complex after reports of several shots being fired. When they arrived, they found a man with a gunshot wound. He was transported to a hospital but later died from his injuries.

Police believe this shooting started as a personal dispute. They have arrested and charged Xavier Frison for the murder.

Georgia Negligent Security Law

Apartment owners in Georgia are required by law to take reasonable security measures if criminal activity is likely on the property. To combat crime in the neighborhood, landlords could be obligated to put in place effective security measures such as visible video cameras, on-site security, a perimeter fence with access-controlled gates, and even a guard station at the entrance gate.

The good news is that the research has indicated that conspicuous security cameras, functional access-controlled gates, secure perimeter fencing, adequate lighting, and, where required, private security guards can reduce violent crime in apartment buildings.

A History of Negligence at AMLI Lenox Apartments

Apartment residents have left online reviews with a list of security and maintenance related problems. “Very very dangerous,” warns a reviewer pointing out the “limited security” on site.

Another resident reports they don’t feel safe, “there have been two shootings in this building and reckless driving in the parking garage.”

“The elevator smells like urine,” states another review and adds that “there is trash in the hallways, elevators & garage.”

Only Crime Victims or Their Relatives Can Demand Justice

Georgia law requires apartment owners to take basic practical steps to prevent foreseeable crimes. If landlords do not address criminal activity occurring in the community, they frequently wind up encouraging a cycle of violence.

Although law enforcement can find criminals and bring them to justice, there isn't much they can do to force property owners to take preventative measures against crime on their property, and they cannot make amends to the victims' families.

Only those who have survived a violent crime or the victim's family are eligible to file a civil lawsuit against property owners and managers. Even though it will never fully compensate for the anguish caused by violent crime, a civil judgment can help with expenditures like medical bills and lost wages as well as serve as a starting point for recovery.

It is important to understand that when property owners suffer major financial losses in court, they generally feel compelled to take the necessary precautions to prevent future violent crimes on their property.

Together we can Make Atlanta Safe, one community at a time.