Another Fatal Shooting at West Club Apartments Leaves 3 Teenagers Dead

Does the owner of West Club Apartments face civil liability after triple homicide resulting from an early morning shooting on the property?

On Tuesday morning, three teenagers were killed and another is fighting for his life after a shooting at an apartment complex in Bibb County.

The Bibb County Sheriff's Office responded to reports of multiple people shot at the West Club Apartments on the 100 block of Stevens Drive. Upon arriving at the scene, they found 16-year-old Marcelles Williams Jr. unresponsive. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The deputies also found three other victims, 18-year-old Jahryon Willis, 18-year-old Tyshun Williams, and an unidentified 14-year-old boy, who had been shot near the apartment complex's building 10.

Medics took Willis, Williams, and the 14-year-old to Atrium Health, where the two 18-year-olds died from their injuries. The 14-year-old remains in critical condition.

All four teenagers were students at Westside High School in Macon.

Georgia Negligent Security Law

In Georgia, apartment complex owners are legally required to provide adequate security measures if there is a history of criminal activity on or near the complex. This may include security measures such as access-controlled gates, a perimeter fence, visible security cameras, on-site security personnel, and a guard station at the entrance.

Research has shown that these measures can be effective in reducing violent crime in apartment communities. Access-controlled gates and perimeter fences help to restrict access to the complex and deter potential criminals. Visible security cameras and on-site security personnel can help to monitor the property and respond to any incidents that occur. A guard station at the entrance can provide an additional layer of security and make it easier to control who enters the complex.

Overall, these security measures can provide residents with a safer and more secure living environment.

A History of Negligence at the West Club Apartments

In April of 2022, a 25-year-old woman was found shot inside a parked car at the apartment community. The woman, identified as Jessica Shontae Reeves, later died of her injuries.

Online reviews of the West Club apartments identify clear issues with the presence of pests and lack of security at the complex. One review warns simply, “Bad place. Roaches everywhere.” They also observed it takes three months to fix anything.

Only Crime Victims or Their Family Can Demand Justice

In Georgia, apartment complex owners are required by law to take reasonable precautions against foreseeable crimes. If landlords don't address criminal activity in the area, they may contribute to a cycle of violence.

The police can arrest criminals and seek justice, but they can't force property owners to implement security measures or compensate victims' families. Only survivors of violent crimes or the victim's family can sue property owners and management companies in court. While a civil judgment can help cover costs like medical bills and lost earnings, it can't fully make up for the suffering caused by violent crime.

It is important to note that property owners and managers are unlikely to take action to prevent violent crimes on their property until they've faced significant damages in court.

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