The Haggard Law Firm’s Pedro Echarte and co-counsel David Helfand have secured a $3.050 Million settlement on behalf of the family of a 29-year-old man who was tragically shot and killed outside a fast-food restaurant. The case highlights the critical duty that restaurants and other public establishments must provide reasonably safe environments for their patrons, both inside and immediately outside their premises.

Per terms of the settlement, the parties involved, and location cannot be reported.

The Incident

The decedent had visited a fast food restaurant with a friend when a verbal argument broke out inside the restaurant between the decedent’s friend and another individual. The restaurant manager instructed all parties to leave, but shortly after exiting, the other individual pulled a firearm and fatally shot the decedent. The decedent’s friend was also shot but survived.

The victim’s parents pursued a wrongful death lawsuit as statutory survivors, seeking damages for their immeasurable pain and suffering following the tragic loss of their son.

Defendants’ Primary Defenses

The entities that owned and operated the fast-food restaurant raised several defenses to avoid liability:

1. The Shooting Occurred Outside the Restaurant
   The defendants argued that because the shooting happened on a public sidewalk, they owed no duty to the decedent. Plaintiff’s counsel successfully countered by demonstrating that the altercation began inside the restaurant and continued immediately outside. The shooting occurred very close to the restaurant’s entrance, an area that should have been safely managed. The law requires restaurants to ensure reasonably safe ingress and egress, which includes the immediate surroundings.

2. No History of Violent Incidents at the Restaurant
   The defendants claimed that the restaurant had no prior history of shootings or violent crime. In response, the Haggard Law Firm presented prior police reports and testimony showing a pattern of disorder and incidents at the establishment. The firm also emphasized the restaurant’s location in a busy late-night tourist district, which heightened the need for proper security measures. Plaintiff’s counsel highlighted the lack of staff training, particularly the manager’s decision to eject all parties simultaneously, a deviation from standard hospitality industry practices. Proper protocol would have required managing one group at a time, reducing the likelihood of escalation outside.

3. Alleged Contributory Fault of the Decedent
   The defendants argued that the decedent bore some responsibility for his own death. The Haggard Law Firm successfully countered this claim, demonstrating that the restaurant staff’s failures directly enabled the escalation. Proper training and adherence to safety protocols could have prevented the confrontation from becoming violent.

Outcome

Thanks to the diligent efforts of attorney Echarte, The Haggard Law Firm secured a settlement that acknowledges the negligent security practices of the restaurant and provides the decedent’s family with justice for their devastating loss. While no amount can replace their son, this resolution holds the restaurant accountable and highlights the importance of public safety in hospitality establishments.

About The Haggard Law Firm

The Haggard Law Firm has extensive experience representing families harmed by negligent businesses and unsafe premises. Our attorneys handle negligent security, wrongful death, and premises liability cases, helping victims and their families pursue justice and fair compensation.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to the negligent actions of a business, contact The Haggard Law Firm today for a free consultation. Our team is committed to holding negligent parties accountable and protecting the rights of victims.

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A 32-year-old man died this week while riding a roller coaster at Universal Orlando’s new Epic Universe theme park. The incident occurred on one of the park’s signature attractions, which opened earlier this year. Witnesses reported the ride abruptly stopped and emergency crews responded quickly, but the victim was later pronounced dead.

Universal officials temporarily closed the ride and are cooperating with investigators. Authorities, including the Orange County Sheriff’s Office and state inspectors, are reviewing what caused the fatal accident.

While we DO NOT KNOW at the time of this posting what caused this death or if there is blame on any person or entity, it is a tragic reminder that amusement park guests should know the responsibilities theme parks have to keep visitors safe.

From the world’s largest amusement parks to smaller, family-owned attractions, one truth remains constant: theme parks have a duty to keep visitors safe. Millions of people visit these parks every year, trusting that rides, games, and attractions are properly inspected, maintained, and staffed. When that responsibility is ignored or safety standards are cut, the consequences can be devastating.

The Duty of Care Theme Parks Owe Guests

No matter the size of the park, owners and operators have a legal obligation to provide a reasonably safe environment. This includes:

• Regular Inspections: Rides and attractions must be thoroughly checked for mechanical, electrical, or structural issues.
• Proper Maintenance: Worn parts, faulty harnesses, and outdated systems must be replaced or repaired before accidents occur.
• Trained Staff: Ride operators and safety personnel should be properly trained to handle emergencies and enforce safety rules.
• Clear Warnings: Guests should be informed of height, weight, or health restrictions, and signs must be visible and accurate.

When parks fall short in any of these areas, they place visitors’ lives at risk. 

From the world’s largest amusement parks to smaller, family-owned attractions, one truth remains constant: theme parks have a duty to keep visitors safe. Millions of people visit these parks every year, trusting that rides, games, and attractions are properly inspected, maintained, and staffed. When that responsibility is ignored or safety standards are cut, the consequences can be devastating.

The Duty of Care Theme Parks Owe Guests

No matter the size of the park, owners and operators have a legal obligation to provide a reasonably safe environment. This includes:

• Regular Inspections: Rides and attractions must be thoroughly checked for mechanical, electrical, or structural issues.
• Proper Maintenance: Worn parts, faulty harnesses, and outdated systems must be replaced or repaired before accidents occur.
• Trained Staff: Ride operators and safety personnel should be properly trained to handle emergencies and enforce safety rules.
• Clear Warnings: Guests should be informed of height, weight, or health restrictions, and signs must be visible and accurate.

When parks fall short in any of these areas, they are putting profit over people—and visitors’ lives are at risk.

The Haggard Law Firm’s Experience in Amusement Park and Tourist Excursion Cases

The Haggard Law Firm has extensive experience representing families in amusement park, attraction, and tourist excursion injury and wrongful death cases. Over the years, the firm has taken on some of the most high-profile cases involving ride and attraction failures.

One of the most notable was the case of Tyre Sampson, a 14-year-old boy who tragically fell to his death in 2022 from the Orlando FreeFall, a 430-foot drop tower ride on International Drive in Orlando. Tyre, who was visiting from Missouri, slipped from his seat because the ride’s safety harness was not properly secured and had been modified in a way that allowed operators to seat larger riders who exceeded manufacturer limits. The horrific incident, which was captured on video, sent shockwaves across the nation and sparked renewed scrutiny of amusement ride safety standards.

The Haggard Law Firm represented Tyre’s mother.  in her pursuit of justice. The case resulted in settlements with all defendants involved and, in a landmark outcome, a $310 million judgment against the ride’s manufacturer. Most importantly for the family, the unsafe ride was permanently dismantled and removed—a vital step in ensuring that no other family would endure the same devastating loss.

What to Do if You or a Loved One Was Injured at a Theme Park

If you or a family member has been injured at a theme park or amusement attraction, it’s important to act quickly. Evidence such as ride inspection records, staff training logs, and eyewitness accounts can be critical in proving negligence. The Haggard Law Firm has extensive experience investigating these cases and fighting for the compensation victims deserve.

Theme parks are built to deliver fun and unforgettable experiences, but that joy should never come at the cost of safety. Regardless of whether it’s a massive destination resort or a small local fair, every operator has a responsibility to keep attractions safe—and when they don’t, accountability is essential.If you or someone you love has suffered a theme park injury, The Haggard Law Firm is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation and learn how our team can fight for justice on your behalf.

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Tragedy in Minneapolis: Supporting Victims of Today’s Mass Shooting

Today, Minneapolis has been shaken by another devastating mass shooting, leaving families and the entire community searching for answers, justice, and healing. As the nation continues to face the reality of senseless gun violence, The Haggard Law Firm extends its deepest condolences to the victims, their loved ones, and everyone affected by this tragedy.

Standing With Victims of Mass Shootings

For decades, The Haggard Law Firm has been at the forefront of representing victims of gun violence and mass shootings across the country. Our attorneys have built a national reputation for pursuing justice in these heartbreaking cases, holding accountable those who fail to prevent foreseeable violence.

When shootings occur in public spaces—whether at schools, retail stores, apartment complexes, or entertainment venues—victims and their families deserve answers. They also deserve legal advocates who will stand up to powerful corporations, property owners, and institutions that may have failed in their duty to provide adequate security or protection.

Experience in Gun Violence and Negligent Security Cases

The Haggard Law Firm has successfully represented families in some of the nation’s most high-profile mass shooting and negligent security cases. Our attorneys understand the legal complexities surrounding these tragedies, from uncovering how preventable the violence may have been to navigating the resources victims need in the aftermath.

Our firm has secured justice and compensation for victims by exposing inadequate security, negligence, and systemic failures that too often contribute to these horrific events. Through litigation, we not only help families find answers but also push for change that can prevent future acts of violence.

Case History: Fighting for Justice After Mass Shootings

The Haggard Law Firm has represented victims and families in numerous cases involving shootings and negligent security failures, including:

Resources for Victims and Families in Minneapolis

• Adventist Church School Shooting in Northern California
• Downtown Orlando Halloween Mass Shooting
• Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida
• University of Virginia Mass Shooting
• Jacksonville Florida Dollar General Shooting 
• Hot Yoga Studio Shooting in Tallahassee, Florida 

In the wake of today’s tragedy, emotional and practical support is critical. If you or a loved one has been impacted, the following resources may be helpful:

• Minnesota Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 for free, confidential support from trained crisis counselors.
• National Gun Violence Survivors Foundation: Provides peer support and resources for those affected by shootings.
• VictimConnect Resource Center: Call 1-855-484-2846 for confidential referrals to victim service providers.
• Local Counseling Services: Many Minneapolis-area hospitals and community centers are offering free or reduced-cost counseling in response to the shooting.

The Haggard Law Firm encourages anyone affected to seek both emotional support and legal guidance during this difficult time.

Supporting the Minneapolis Community

As Minneapolis begins the difficult process of mourning and recovery, The Haggard Law Firm stands ready to support victims and their families with compassion and determination. Every mass shooting leaves behind lasting trauma, but it also highlights the urgent need for accountability and reform.

Our mission is to be more than lawyers—we are advocates for change, dedicated to ensuring that victims are not forgotten and that communities become safer.

Contact The Haggard Law Firm

If you or a loved one has been impacted by today’s mass shooting in Minneapolis, you don’t have to face this alone. Our nationally recognized attorneys are here to guide you through the legal process and fight for justice on your behalf.

📞 Contact us today for a free consultation: 866-744-2233

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The Haggard Law Firm’s Douglas McCarron, along with co-counsel Mark Brumer, has helped secure long-awaited justice for the family of Peniel Janvier, a young boy who  drowned while visiting the Scott Rakow Youth Center pool in Miami Beach.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed a claims bill passed by the Florida Legislature, authorizing payment of the balance of a $2 million wrongful death settlement against the City of Miami Beach. 

Under Florida’s sovereign immunity law, government entities are typically shielded from paying more than $300,000 in damages without special legislative approval. The Governor’s signature ensures the Janvier family will now receive the full settlement after years of waiting for accountability.

How This Tragedy Happened

Surveillance video from the day of the drowning revealed alarming safety failures at the Scott Rakow pool. The summer camp was hosting a large end-of-year celebration, and the pool was extremely crowded with children, many of whom were not strong swimmers. Despite this, the City:

• Staffed only two of four lifeguard chairs.
• Had no supervisors on duty.
• Failed to assign lifeguards proper zones of responsibility, leaving each responsible for scanning the entire pool — a practice that violates every published lifeguard safety standard.
• Allowed an on-duty lifeguard to use his cell phone while on the stand. Disturbingly, video shows the lifeguard looking down at his phone at the very moment Peniel was pushed into the pool and struggled to stay afloat.

Lifeguard Responsibility and Pool Safety Standards

Lifeguards play a critical role in drowning prevention. Their duties require:

• Continuous scanning of assigned pool zones.
• Clear assignment of “zones of responsibility.”
• Strict adherence to no cell phone policies.
• Adequate staffing and supervision during busy events.

When these basic standards are ignored, tragedies like Peniel Janvier’s drowning become far more likely.

Why the Claims Bill Was Necessary

In Florida, government agencies and municipalities are generally protected by sovereign immunity, which caps damages at $300,000. To recover additional compensation, a claims bill must be passed by the Florida Legislature and signed by the Governor.

The Legislature’s approval and the Governor’s signature authorized the payment of the settlement’s balance, bringing closure to the Janvier family after years of heartbreak and delay.

The Haggard Law Firm has an extensive history of securing claims bill’s for clients.

A Preventable Tragedy

Peniel was an extraordinary young man from a close-knit family. His loss has left an indelible mark on his parents, relatives, and community. While no amount of money can replace his life, this settlement and the approval of the claims bill provide long-overdue accountability for the City’s negligence.

The Haggard Law Firm’s Decades of Experience in Drowning Cases

For decades, The Haggard Law Firm has represented families across the country in drowning and non-fatal drowning cases, as well as negligent supervision and wrongful death lawsuits. The firm’s attorneys have long held cities, property owners, and organizations accountable when safety standards are ignored.

The Janvier case underscores not only the devastating consequences of negligence but also the critical importance of enforcing pool safety policies to prevent future drownings.

📞 If you or a loved one has been the victim of a drowning or other tragedy caused by negligence, contact The Haggard Law Firm at 305.446.5700 to speak with an experienced attorney.

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In Coral Springs, Florida, a deeply disturbing case has emerged involving a former Coral Springs Charter School teacher. Joseph M. Melendez, 33, was arrested by the Coral Springs Police Department’s Special Victims Unit and is currently being held at the Broward County Main Jail.Melendez faces multiple felony charges:

• Sexual Battery (Victim 12 years or older)
• Lewd or Lascivious Molestation (Victim 12 years or older)
• Lewd or Lascivious Act (two counts)

Allegations of Grooming and Abuse

According to investigators, Melendez used his role as a teacher and overseer of the school’s American Sign Language Club to gain the trust of boys between the ages of 13 and 17. Police say he groomed one victim by treating him like a “favorite student,” engaging in increasingly inappropriate conversations—including messages about what was considered pleasurable—and eventually driving the boy to his apartment to sexually abuse him.Police say the abuse began when the victim was a freshman and continued into his sophomore year. 

Why This Case Highlights the Need for Legal Action Beyond Criminal Charges

Survivors and their families should know that criminal prosecution alone is not the only path to justice in these horrible situations. Criminal cases focus on punishing the offender—but they do not provide financial compensation or directly address the institutional failures that may have allowed the abuse to occur.Schools, school boards, and affiliated organizations can  be held civilly liable if they knew or should have known about misconduct and failed to act. This is where an experienced personal injury and sexual abuse attorney is essential.

Cases Involving Authority Figures

Sexual abuse by a teacher, counselor, or coach is uniquely complex because:

• The abuse often involves grooming that makes victims hesitant or afraid to speak out.
• Institutions may try to protect themselves instead of prioritizing the victim’s well-being.
• Evidence must be handled carefully, including digital communications, witness testimony, and timelines of events.
• Statutes of limitations can vary, making it crucial to act quickly.

How The Haggard Law Firm Can Help

The attorneys at The Haggard Law Firm have decades of experience representing survivors of sexual abuse by authority figures. They understand how to investigate, prove, and pursue civil claims while protecting the survivor’s privacy and dignity.When representing victims in cases like the Melendez matter, The Haggard Law Firm can:

• Conduct a thorough, independent investigation to uncover additional evidence and identify other potential victims.
• Hold all responsible parties accountable, including institutions that failed to protect students.
• Provide trauma-informed representation, ensuring survivors feel supported and respected throughout the process.
• Pursue full compensation for therapy, medical expenses, emotional distress, lost opportunities, and other damages.

If You Are a Victim—or Know Someone Who May Be

If you were a student at Coral Springs Charter School or suffered sexual abuse by Joseph M. Melendez or another teacher, coach, counselor, or authority figure, you are not alone. .The Haggard Law Firm offers confidential, no-obligation consultations to help survivors understand their rights and legal options. Your information will be handled with the utmost discretion. 

📞 Call The Haggard Law Firm today at 305.446.5700 or contact us online to speak directly with an attorney experienced in sexual abuse cases involving authority figures.

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A $12 Million settlement has been reached in a negligent security and wrongful death lawsuit filed on behalf of the estate of Marvin Ousley, a father of six who was shot and killed at the Waters Edge Apartments in Jacksonville, Florida.

The case was litigated by Pedro Echarte and Michael Haggard of The Haggard Law Firm, nationally recognized leaders in premises liability and negligent security cases. Echarte and Haggar worked with co-counsel Millicent Daniels of the Daniels Law Firm. Their work helped secure justice for the victim’s family and emphasized how property owners can be held financially accountable when they fail to prevent foreseeable crimes.

The Incident: Fatal Shooting in the Parking Lot

On October 2, 2021, Marvin Ousley was visiting family at the Waters Edge Apartments when he stepped outside to take a phone call. Eyewitnesses described a horrifying scene in which Marvin was chased through the parking lot by a gunman who yelled, “come here, boy,” shot him, and then took something from him. Marvin died at the scene.

Though no one was arrested in connection with the crime, the civil case focused on the apartment complex’s failure to provide basic, reasonable security—despite a long record of criminal activity on the premises.

Pattern of Crime and Lack of Safety

At the time of Marvin’s death, the Waters Edge Apartments were owned and operated by the defendants named in the lawsuit. Attorney Pedro Echarte and the legal team at The Haggard Law Firm uncovered evidence of:

• A history of violent and non-violent criminal activity on the property.
• Minimal security infrastructure—only a few surveillance cameras aimed at protecting management assets (e.g., the leasing office, laundry rooms).
• No access control, no gated entry, and no professional security staff—only a single courtesy officer living on-site.

In sworn depositions, former employees of the defendants admitted they were unaware of the full extent of crime occurring at the complex and acknowledged that security measures were entirely inadequate.

Who Was Marvin Ousley?

Marvin was a father to six children, each with a different mother. His estate was represented by his own mother, Consuelo Hartley, who brought the wrongful death claim on behalf of her grandchildren.

The defendants attempted to use Marvin’s family structure to limit damages. But attorneys Echarte, Haggard, and Daniels effectively demonstrated through photos, videos, and testimony that Marvin had meaningful relationships with each of his children.

Overcoming the Defense’s Arguments

Defense counsel claimed that:

• The majority of past violent crimes occurred at night, while Marvin was killed during daylight hours.
• Most crimes had taken place over a year before the shooting.

The plaintiff’s legal team rebutted these claims by showing that the risk of crime remained high, that violent crime was foreseeable, and that the property owners had taken no meaningful action to protect residents or guests.

Landmark $12 Million Settlement

This case concluded with a $12 million settlement. Attorneys Echarte, Haggard and Daniels’ advocacy not only brought justice for Marvin’s children but also sent a clear message to property owners throughout Florida: Neglecting tenant safety comes at a cost.

About The Haggard Law Firm

Based in Coral Gables, Florida, The Haggard Law Firm is a nationally respected personal injury firm known for groundbreaking results in negligent security, drowning, wrongful death, and catastrophic injury cases.

Have You or a Loved One Been Injured Due to Negligent Security?

If you or someone you love has been the victim of a violent crime on someone else’s property, you may have legal options. Property owners and managers have a legal duty to provide reasonable security measures to protect visitors and residents.

📞 Contact our experienced personal injury attorneys today for a free consultation.

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On December 21, 2022, school security guard Mary Ortega suffered catastrophic injuries while on duty at Kensington Park Elementary. After being struck by motorized entry gates pushed by a reversing Sherlock Tree Company landscaping truck, Mary sustained a traumatic brain injury and a torn rotator cuff—both requiring emergency medical intervention and long-term rehabilitation.

 The Haggard Law Firm’s Douglas McCarron secured a $1 Million policy limit settlement on behalf of Mary Ortega in this case, ensuring vital support for her recovery and ongoing care.

How the Incident Happened

According to witnesses, the landscaping truck was reversing toward the back of the school when it collided with the gates. Mary was standing between the moving gates and had little time to react. The impact caused the gates to slam into her, throwing her to the ground and causing her to hit her head on the pavement.

Emergency Surgery and Lasting Brain Damage

Mary was transported to Jackson Memorial Ryder Trauma Center, where a CT scan revealed both a subarachnoid hemorrhage and a left-sided subdural hemorrhage with shift—critical conditions requiring immediate brain surgery. She underwent a left-sided craniotomy to alleviate swelling and stop the bleeding.

Post-surgery evaluations confirmed that Mary now lives with long-term cognitive impairments, including:

• Deficits in perceptual reasoning
• Reduced sustained attention
• Impaired language skills
• Disruption in executive functioning

Rotator Cuff Tear and Additional Surgery

In addition to the traumatic brain injury, Mary suffered a full-thickness rotator cuff tear, which severely limited her mobility. Due to her difficulty walking and reliance on an assistive device, surgery was initially delayed. On September 1, 2023, she underwent successful shoulder repair, followed by physical therapy and a structured home exercise regimen.

Justice Secured: $1 Million Policy Limits Settlement

The Haggard Law Firm fought to hold Sherlock Tree Company fully accountable for its negligence, securing a $1 million policy limits settlement—the maximum available under the defendant’s insurance policy.

This result ensures Mary has access to the medical care, rehabilitation services, and financial support needed to navigate her long-term recovery.

The Haggard Law Firm: Advocating for the Seriously Injured

With a proven track record in catastrophic injury and premises liability cases, The Haggard Law Firm is proud to have secured justice for Mary Ortega and her family.

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured due to negligence, contact our team today.

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The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued an urgent recall of approximately 5 million above-ground pools following the tragic drowning deaths of nine young children, aged between 22 months and 3 years, across six states. The recalled pools—manufactured in China and sold under popular brands like Bestway, Intex, Coleman, and Polygroup—pose a significant safety risk due to a compression strap that can allow unsupervised access to the water.

At The Haggard Law Firm, we are deeply concerned by this widespread and preventable hazard. With more than three decades of experience representing families nationwide in fatal and non-fatal drowning cases, we have seen firsthand the heartbreak these incidents cause—and the accountability that must follow.

Why These Pools Are Being Recalled

According to the CPSC, the external compression strap that wraps around the supports of the affected pools acts as an unintentional foothold, allowing small children to climb into the pool even if the ladder has been removed. The result: at least nine fatal child drownings between 2007 and 2022, with additional non-fatal incidents also reported.

These pools, all with walls 48 inches or taller, were sold at major retailers including:

• Walmart
• Target
• Amazon
• The Home Depot
• Costco
• BJ’s Wholesale Club
• Wayfair

If you own one of these pools, the manufacturers are offering free repair kits that include a safer, low-mounted rope to replace the dangerous strap. But until the repair is complete, the CPSC advises draining the pool or securing it to prevent child access.

A Legacy of Drowning Prevention and Legal Advocacy

For over 30 years, The Haggard Law Firm has represented families impacted by both fatal and non-fatal drownings involving unsafe products, unprotected water hazards, and negligent pool design. We’ve handled high-profile cases across the country—including cases involving defective pool equipment and poorly maintained community pools—fighting for justice and industry reform.

As part of our mission, we partner with national drowning prevention advocates to improve safety standards and ensure real accountability for product manufacturers and property owners.

You May Be Entitled to Legal Action

If your child was injured or you lost a loved one due to one of these recalled pools—or any unsafe or improperly designed pool—you may be entitled to compensation. Our experienced legal team can help determine if your case qualifies for a product liability claim.

Contact Us Today

Don’t wait to get answers. If a recalled pool or unsafe swimming environment caused harm to your family, contact The Haggard Law Firm today for a free, confidential consultation. We are a national leader in drowning litigation—and we’re here to help you seek justice.

📞 305.446.5700
🌐 www.haggardlawfirm.com

The post Millions of Above-Ground Pools Recalled After 9 Child Drowning Deaths: What Families Need to Know appeared first on The Haggard Law Firm.

The Haggard Law Firm’s Kimberly Wald and Michael Haggard have obtained a $16 Million settlement on behalf of the families of multiple victims who were killed during a targeted shooting at a Jacksonville apartment complex. The legal team included co-counsel Millicent Daniels, Reggie Reeves, and Juan Cordero.

Due to the terms of the settlement, the names of the parties involved remain confidential.

What Happened: A Preventable Tragedy

The fatal incident occurred when the victims were shot and killed after assailants gained unfettered access to an apartment complex. At the time of the shooting no security guards were on duty, and property access controls were insufficient. This case is another example of how inadequate safety measures and poor property management can lead to irreversible harm and loss of life. Negligent security lawsuits are often the only recourse families have to hold apartment complexes, hotels, short term rental vacations, and other commercial properties accountable when they fail to protect tenants and guests.

Defense Arguments vs. the Facts

During litigation, the apartment complex’s owners and property managers claimed:

• There was no prior violent crime on the premises.
• The vehicle gates were functioning on the night of the incident.
• The shooting was the result of alleged gang activity involving another individual at the complex.

However, the legal team for the plaintiffs argued that property owners have a legal duty to take reasonable security measures—especially when allowing access to private residences. The failure to employ security guards, monitor guest access, and ensure the safety of visitors contributed to the preventable death of multiple innocent individuals.

National Leaders in Negligent Security Law

The Haggard Law Firm is a preeminent personal injury law firm handling negligent security cases nationwide, with a proven track record of success. The firm has recovered more than $1 Billion in verdicts and settlements for clients across the country in cases involving negligent (inadequate) security. This settlement underscores the importance of holding property owners accountable when they neglect basic safety measures that could deter violent crime. 

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