The Legal Chronicle
Jahquan Peterson, Mary Carmichael Killed in Shooting at Columbia Apartment Complex. (WIStv.com)
Did negligent security contribute to the loss of Jahquan Peterson and Mary Carmichael and are justice and compensation available to the victim’s family?
LOCAL NEWS
Gunfire erupted at a Columbia, South Carolina apartment complex Saturday night, May 12, 2019, tragically leaving a young man and woman dead. According to TheState.com, “[t]he shooting happened Saturday night at 221 Skyland Drive.” WIStv.com is reporting, “CPD and the Richland County Coroner’s Office have identified the victims as 23-year-old Mary Carmichael and 26-year-old Jahquan Peterson. Both were shot in the upper body.”
Media reports indicate that no suspects have been identified yet.
OUR LEGAL TAKE
Apartment residents and guests have a right to feel safe and secure while on the premises. The Murray Law Firm questions the level of security provided at the apartment complex and whether this shooting may have been prevented.
- How were the suspects able to gain access on to the property?
- Have there been prior incidents of violence on or near the property?
- What security measures, such as gated-entry, fencing, monitored surveillance cameras, and visible security patrols, were in place to deter crime and protect Jahquan Peterson and Mary Carmichael at the time of the shooting?
Generally, property owners are required to protect all those legally on the premises from any foreseeable harm. Should the facts of this matter reveal that the apartment complex owner failed to provide adequate security to protect those on its premises, the families of Jahquan Peterson and Mary Carmichael may seek justice and elect to pursue legal claims for their loss.
Based upon its prior successful experience in handling security negligence claims on behalf of victims and their families, The Murray Law Firm suggests that photographs and a thorough, unbiased inspection of the property will need to be performed immediately, before any evidence may be repaired, damaged or destroyed. Given the complexities of pursuing a negligent security case, it is imperative that the families of Jahquan Peterson and Mary Carmichael retain an experienced attorney who can ensure the preservation of any and all evidence that may support such a claim.
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The Murray Law Firm has an extensive and successful record representing victims of violence and security negligence. We have obtained over $100 Million in verdicts and settlements for our Clients, including a $29.25 million dollar verdict for a victim of an unsafe property. We offer our legal assistance, if desired.
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