Bakersfield, CA - Four Injured in Shooting at the Lone Oak Lounge

Four Victims Injured in Bar Shooting 

KGET has reported that a shooting occurred at the Lone Oak Lounge located at 10612 Rosedale Hwy, Bakersfield, CA 93312. 

Police responded to a call at around 10:45 p.m. on Saturday, January 29, 2022. When they arrived, they found four victims wounded, three of which were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. The fourth refused treatment. Details of the shooting are still being investigated. 

Can I Sue a Bar Owner For Being Shot at a Bar?

Attorney contributor Bobby Thompson is a lawyer who represents victims of bar shootings in civil lawsuits in California. We recently sat down with Bobby to discuss when a bar owner can be held liable for a bar shooting. 

"While violent crimes, such as shootings and stabbings, can occur at any location, bars have a greater risk due to the consumption of alcohol on the premises. This creates a greater duty for the bar owner in order to provide adequate security for patrons and staff. By law, the bar owner owes a duty of care, meaning they must have security measures in place to reduce the risk of preventable violence. Ample parking lot lighting, security cameras, and hired guards are often choices for bars looking to protect their property. When a bar does not have sufficient security measures in place, they can be deemed negligent."

"However, victims will need to prove that the bar's negligence allowed the violent incident to take place. Furthermore, if the bar had a history of violence or the area saw an increase in crime, the bar owner would be held to reinforcing its security. If the property owner did not, an experienced lawyer would be able to prove the crime was foreseeable and that the bar owner failed to take the necessary measures to provide adequate security. Victims may be entitled to pursue financial relief to cover medical expenses and other losses by filing a lawsuit."

Sources:

KGET