According to NBC News, a student has died following an alleged shooting at Bellaire High School, located at 5100 Maple Street on January 15th. Officials stated a suspected shooter and another fellow student were apprehended following the school day on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m.
The identity of the 16-year-old shooter has been kept anonymous because they are a minor. The student is charged with manslaughter and is said to have been cooperating with the police, with the weapon from the shooting being recovered as a result of the student's cooperation.
Attorney contributor Anjali Nigam works with victims and their families in private civil court cases. Below he has shared his insight in regards to civil cases and the legal options that can be taken. Anjali does not represent any of the parties in this case, but his insights may help victims of similar cases answer questions such as "Can I sue for being shot?"
"Property and business owners have a legal duty to ensure the safety of their guests and visitors. Certain security measures must be in place according to the premises liability laws of the United States Code. Owners should have well-lit parking lots, video surveillance, or on-site officers as a part of ensuring guest safety.
When a property owner fails to provide a means of security, a civil litigation lawyer will need to prove how the owner acted negligently. A reasonably foreseeable crime happens when the property owner failed to provide adequate security while knowing that increased criminal activity existed in the area. Compensation may be awarded through the court after winning a civil case.
Unfortunately, the criminal justice system was not developed to help with proper compensation to a victim. If a victim becomes incapacitated medical expenses will rise and families are forced to pay those costs. In almost every court, a family member may act on behalf of a victim to request monetary damages," explained Anjali.