Man Killed at Park Vista Apartment Complex

Could a man’s violent murder at the Park Vista apartments leave property owners civilly liable for negligent security?

Atlanta Police responded to the Park Vista Apartment complex after reports of a dispute on the property. Upon arrival, they found a man with “severe injuries.”

Sadly, the man eventually succumbed to their injuries. The victim’s name has not been released.

Later on, George Sharrod Johns was arrested and charged with murder in connection with the victim’s death. Police are still investigating the violent incident.

Georgia Negligent Security Law

If criminal activity is likely to occur on the premises, apartment owners in Georgia are obligated by law to adopt reasonable security precautions. Landlords may be required to implement practical security measures like visible video cameras, on-site security, a perimeter fence with access-controlled gates, and even a guard station at the entrance gate in order to reduce crime in the neighborhood.

The good news is that research suggests that visible security cameras, functioning access-controlled gates, secured perimeter fencing, sufficient illumination, and, when necessary, professional security guards on site can minimize violent crime in apartment buildings.

A History of Negligence at the Park Vista Apartments

The online reviews for Park Vista indicate frustrating and unsafe conditions for residents.

One resident posted a list of problems including electrical and plumbing complaining it’s been 2 years since they asked for maintenance to help. “I can’t sleep in one of my bedrooms because the whole ceiling is moldy,” they write. “Something has to change.”

Only Crime Victims or Their Relatives Can Demand Justice

Georgia law mandates that landlords take reasonable precautions to deter reasonably foreseeable crimes. Landlords frequently end up promoting a cycle of violence if they do not address criminal behavior that is occurring in the neighborhood.

Although the police can find criminals and arrest them, there isn't much they can do to force property owners to take practical 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 healing.

It is important to note that property owners typically only feel obligated to take the appropriate steps to deter future violent crimes at their apartment complex when they suffer significant financial damages in court.

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