Mass Shooting at Relax Inn Leaves Two Dead and Two Injured

Does the owner of the Relax Inn in Claxton, Georgia face legal liability following a fatal mass shooting at the hotel?  

An investigation is currently ongoing into a mass shooting at the Relax Inn on US Highway 301 in Claxton, Georgia. The tragic incident resulted in the deaths of Shalonde A'Jessica Stevens, 27, and Taylor Samone Clark, 26, and also left two others injured.

The disturbing incident unfolded shortly after 7:00 AM, shattering the quiet morning with the sound of gunfire. Responding to emergency calls, Claxton Police and Evans County Sheriff's deputies arrived to find a scene of trauma, with four individuals suffering from gunshot wounds. Regrettably, two of the victims succumbed to their injuries at the motel.

The GBI has identified them as Shalonde A'Jessica Stevens and Taylor Samone Clark both residents of Statesboro, Georgia. The identities and conditions of the two surviving victims remain undisclosed at this time. However, the GBI urges anyone with information related to the shooting to come forward.

Georgia Negligent Security Law

Hotel and motel owners in Georgia, particularly those offering weekly rentals, bear a significant responsibility. They must take appropriate security measures if they know of criminal activities happening on or around their premises. These measures involve verifying the identities of guests, barring individuals known to cause problems, erecting fences, installing clearly visible security cameras, employing security personnel on the premises, and providing adequate lighting. Studies indicate that these steps can help lower the incidence of violent crime.

A History of Negligence at the Relax Inn

The Evans County hotel is known to offer extended stay or weekly rates. Online reviews show the unsafe conditions of the hotel.

There are “a lot of people actually living in the hotel and it seems like a lot of drug activities going on,” wrote one customer.

Another review says simply, “A complete dump.”

Only Crime Victims or Their Family Can Demand Justice

In Georgia, owners of hotels and motels are obligated to maintain the safety of their properties to prevent criminal activities. Neglecting this responsibility may contribute to ongoing criminal behavior.

Although law enforcement agencies have the power to arrest criminals, they lack the legal authority to force hotel or motel owners to take preventive measures against crime or to compensate the victims' families.

Only crime survivors or victims' families can legally sue hotel or resort owners and managers after a violent incident. Civil damages may assist with expenses like medical bills or lost income, partially easing the recovery process. However, no compensation can fully account for the trauma inflicted by violence.

Importantly, hotel owners and managers often avoid taking preventive measures until they are confronted with legal consequences, indicating a possible reluctance to proactively address security challenges.

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