Woman shot multiple times at Gardens at Washington Park apartments

Could the Gardens at Washington Park apartment owners’ negligent actions lead to civil liability for a woman shot multiple times on the property?

Atlanta police say they were called to the Gardens at Washington Park apartments after reports of gunfire. When they arrived at the scene, they found a woman inside an apartment with multiple gunshot wounds.

Police say the woman was inside her apartment when the shots came from outside and hit her. She was transported to the hospital for treatment.

The victim’s name and current condition have not been released. No arrests have been made and Atlanta police are asking for anyone who may have any information about the shooting to come forward.

Is this Negligent Security under Georgia law?

State law in Georgia requires property owners to implement appropriate security measures if there is a possibility that criminal conduct will occur in the apartment complex. Landlords and property managers may be compelled to put in place appropriate security measures, such as visible video cameras, on-site security, a perimeter fence with access-controlled gates, or even a guard station at the entrance gate, in order to reduce violent crime.

The good news is that studies have shown a reduction in violent crime in housing developments with clearly visible security cameras, operable access-controlled gates, secure perimeter fencing, adequate lighting, and, where necessary, qualified security guards.

A History of Negligence at the Gardens at Washington Park Apartments

Residents and guests of the Gardens at Washington Park apartments have left many online reviews decrying dangerous conditions. One review warns that “every other day the police are responding to something in our area.”

Multiple reviewers agree that parking is simply horrible. Having to deal with “non-residents parked in all the spots” means they have to park further away. Another reviewer noticed that the pedestrian gate “looks as if it is supposed to be secure, but is broken.”

Only Crime Victims or Their Relatives Can Demand Justice

Georgia law requires property owners to take reasonable safeguards against prospective crimes. If landlords and property management do not address criminal activities taking place in the community, they frequently wind up encouraging a cycle of violence.

Although police departments can find criminals and bring them to justice, there isn't much they can do to persuade property owners to make changes to prevent crime on their property, and they are unable to make amends to the families of the victims.

The only people who may bring a civil case against property owners and managers are those who have survived a violent crime or the victim's family. A civil judgment can help with costs like medical bills and lost earnings as well as serve as a beginning point for healing, although it will never entirely make up for the suffering brought on by violent crime.

Importantly, property owners and managers could feel the pressure to take precautions to prevent future violent crimes on their property when crime victims win a sizable monetary compensation.

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