According to WGN 9, a shooting occurred at St Monica & Luke Church located at 645 Rhode Island Ct., Gary, IN 46402.
On Saturday, November 13, 2021, many were gathered at the church for the funeral of a loved one. Sadly, many will continue to mourn as gunfire rang out across the crowd. Two men were shot and taken to a nearby hospital. Per WGN 9, one victim died later that day from his wounds while the other is said to be in stable condition.
Police are continuing to search for the shooter, who witnesses said fled the scene on foot.
Attorney contributor Jeff Gibson is an experienced gun crime lawyer who works with victims of violent crimes, like church shootings. Below he has outlined some important information for families and victims to better understand their legal right to obtain compensation from negligent properties after a shooting.
"Deadly shootings and other violent crimes often leave victims and their families with long-term suffering. Identifying the person responsible for the crime can help bring partial justice to the victim. However, many times a third party may be liable for the crime as well. With the legal aid of an educated gun crime lawyer, victims can determine if they have grounds to pursue a civil lawsuit against the property based on neglect. In some cases, this may lead to injury compensation."
"Churches, just like other property owners, should offer their congregation and guests a level of security when they are on the property. Measures include security cameras, sufficient parking lot lighting, and other forms of security. If it can be proven by a lawyer that the owner of the property had prior knowledge of increased criminal activity but failed to increase their security, they may be held responsible for crimes, such as a shooting, on the premises."