Could a negligent security lawsuit loom for an Amoco gas station owner after a fatal shooting, leaves one dead and an innocent bystander seriously injured?
Atlanta Police responded to an Amoco gas station in Atlanta upon receiving reports of gunfire there. They discovered a male victim suffering from gunshot wounds, but despite their efforts to save his life, he tragically succumbed to his injuries before he could be transported to a hospital.
Nearby a woman was found suffering from a bullet wound. Preliminary investigations indicate that she was an unintended victim of the gun violence, caught in the crossfire by accident. She was transported to the hospital and she is expected to survive.
Law enforcement authorities believe the shooting stemmed from an altercation between two individuals. Neither victim has been publicly identified, however the police are urging anyone with additional information to come forward and assist with the ongoing investigation.
Property and business owners in Georgia, including Amoco, must ensure the safety of their property if there is a history of crimes in the vicinity. This could involve asking consumers for identification, keeping criminals at bay, deploying visible surveillance cameras, having security personnel on site, and making sure the area is adequately lit. According to authorities, these steps can minimize violent crime in and around areas where people work, live, or visit.
The Amoco location, previously a Texaco gas station, has seen a number of violent incidents in recent years including incidents of fatal gun shootings. In 2017, Daronald Wilkerson, 17, was shot and killed while sitting in a car. In February 2021, a man was shot and killed outside the gas station.
Property and business owners in Georgia are responsible for ensuring the safety of people on their property by taking the appropriate precautions against expected criminal activity. Failure to address such concerns may lead to an unwelcome cycle of reoccurring violations.
While law enforcement officers play an important role in apprehending offenders and seeking justice, they lack the authority to compel property owners to prevent crimes or give financial reparations to victims and their families.
Those who have survived a violent crime or the relatives of victims have legal recourse in the form of civil lawsuits. A civil judgment can help with expenses like medical bills and missed wages through this route, providing as a critical starting point for healing. However, it is important to recognize that monetary compensation cannot totally heal the immense pain caused by violent crime.
Unfortunately, property owners and management are sometimes hesitant to take preventive measures until they face large financial implications in court, which is another reason for victims or their families to pursue justice.
Together we can Make Atlanta Safe, one community at a time.