Coatesville, PA - A Police Officer Was Injured in a Stabbing at a Turkey Hill Mini Market

A Police Officer Was Injured in a Stabbing at a Gas Station

According to CBS Philly, a Coatesville police officer was stabbed multiple times after responding to a call at the Turkey Hill gas station located at 300 W Kings Hwy, Coatesville, PA 19320. 

On Friday, September 3, 2021, the officer was called to the gas station for a report of theft by an employee, 20-year-old Michael White. The store's manager had found that White allegedly had stolen over $3,000 from the register. The officer made arrangements for White to go to his residence to retrieve the money and return it to the store manager. When the officer attempted to shake White's hand in agreement, White stabbed the victim multiple times in the face and hand. 

The victim was transported to Reading Hospital for treatment of his wounds. He is said to be in stable condition after undergoing surgery. 

White has been arrested and is facing charges of:

• attempted criminal homicide of a law enforcement officer
• attempted first-degree murder
• aggravated assault 
• related charges

Legal Options for Victims Stabbed at a Gas Station

Attorney contributor Brian Kent is an experienced violent crime attorney who has represented numerous stabbings victims in civil lawsuits. Below, Brian has provided insight on the legal rights of victims stabbed at a gas station.

"Commercial property owners, like gas stations, have a legal obligation to provide a safe environment for both customers and employees on their property. These owners should do everything possible to provide safety to all that come on their property. Some examples of safety measures could include surveillance cameras and strong lighting throughout the property. If a victim is stabbed on the gas station's property, they should inquire if sufficient security measures were in place during the time of the crime."

"If adequate security measures were found to be lacking at the time of the crime, the property owner could be considered liable for the crime. However, for the property owner to be accountable, the crime has to be considered reasonably foreseeable. One example of a foreseeable crime is if the crime rate in the area has increased, but security measures on the property were not increased. In such cases of negligence with foreseeable crimes, victims and their families should understand that they may reason to pursue a civil lawsuit against the gas station owner and are encouraged to employ the counsel of an experienced violent crime attorney.

Sources:

CBS Philly