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According to 21 Alive News, the Fort Wayne Police Department is currently investigating a shooting incident that occurred early Sunday morning June 11, 2023, at a popular downtown hookah lounge located at 1407 Calhoun St, Fort Wayne, IN 46802. According to authorities, a woman arrived at a local hospital with an apparent gunshot wound shortly before 2:30 a.m.
The incident took place at the Downtown Bar Hookah Lounge, located off S Calhoun Street. Witnesses reported a large crowd had gathered at the establishment, which unfortunately resulted in a confrontation that escalated into a physical altercation. In the midst of the commotion, a single round was fired, striking the woman.
The victim, whose identity has not been disclosed, quickly made her way to a nearby hospital where she received treatment for her non-life-threatening injuries. The police have not confirmed whether she was directly involved in the initial fight or was an unintended target.
Attorney contributor Jeff Gibson is an experienced gun violence lawyer representing victims across the state of Indiana. During an interview, Jeff discussed the legal rights available for victims including when victims can sue if shot at a hookah lounge in Indiana.
"In recent years, there has been a distressing rise in shootings at various establishments, including hookah lounges and bars. When a shooting occurs at a hookah lounge or bar, determining liability can be a complex matter. Several parties may potentially share responsibility, depending on the specific circumstances surrounding the incident. The owner or operator of the establishment has a legal duty to maintain a reasonably safe environment for patrons. If it can be proven that their negligence contributed to the shooting, they may be held liable for the damages suffered by the victims.
Furthermore, in some cases, the shooter or assailant may not be the only party responsible for the incident. If it can be demonstrated that the lounge owner had prior knowledge of violent incidents or criminal activity in the vicinity, yet failed to take appropriate preventive measures, they could be held liable for failing to protect their patrons. This might involve conducting thorough background checks on employees or implementing stricter policies to deter potential violent individuals.
It is important for victims to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who specializes in premises liability cases. Such an attorney can thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting, gather evidence, and determine the best legal course of action. They will help victims understand their rights, guide them through the legal process, and work towards obtaining the compensation they deserve."
Sources:
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