Could the negligent actions of the Reserve Carrollton apartment owners result in civil liability for a fatal shooting on the property?
Authorities were called to the off-campus student living apartments near the University of West Georgia for reports of a shooting. Upon arrival they found a male victim in the complex’s parking lot suffering from a gun shot wound. The gunshot victim was transported to the hospital but was later pronounced dead.
Witnesses said they saw a white car speeding away from the scene. Police later arrested the suspected gunman.
While investigators work to determine the motive, anyone with more information is asked to call.
In Georgia, apartment and property owners have a legal responsibility to help prevent crimes on their property. This means they should take safety steps like installing security cameras, putting up fences, making sure areas are well-lit, and fixing any problems or stopping illegal activities that could make the area unsafe. If property owners do not take these precautions, they can be held responsible for crimes that happen on their property.
Property owners have several ways to make their properties safer. One method is installing security cameras, which can deter criminals by making them aware they’re being watched and can help police find suspects if a crime happens. Adding fences can also be effective, as it makes it harder for people who don’t belong there to get in. Bright lighting is another key factor because it reduces the risk of crimes that often occur in dark areas. In places with higher crime rates, hiring security guards to patrol the property adds an extra layer of safety. By using these strategies, property owners can make their properties much more secure.
Online reviews of the Reserve Carrollton apartments highlight unsafe living situations for residents. “The huge block parties are getting out of hand” writes one resident.
Another resident reported feeling harassed and unsafe due to “a group of men who … never left the chairs they had sitting outside my apartment.” She also reported having “the apartment below me get broken into” along with other horrible maintenance issues.
In Georgia, property owners have a duty to take steps to make sure their properties are safe from criminal activity. This can include adding security cameras and ensuring proper lighting around the property. Property owners should also inform residents or visitors about any recent criminal activity in the area. If they do not take these precautions, they could be held responsible if someone gets hurt on their property. This liability could mean paying for medical bills and other damages.
While the police can catch and punish criminals, they cannot require property owners or apartment management companies to improve safety or pay compensation to victims. Only the victims or their families can take legal action to seek compensation through the courts. If they win, the money can help cover medical bills and lost income, but it cannot undo the trauma and suffering they experienced.
It’s also important to note that when victims receive significant financial compensation, it can push property owners and managers to add better safety measures to prevent future crimes.
Together we can Make Atlanta Safe, one community at a time.