ABC 13 reported a shooting at the Live Oak Club located at 2533 Southmore Blvd, Houston, TX 77004.
At about 2 a.m. on Saturday, December 17, 2022, police responded to a shooting at a club in Houston's Third Ward. They arrived on the scene to find a large crowd with several "disturbances." An investigation determined that an argument between a man and woman inside the club spilled outside. Despite not knowing much at the time about the suspects, they believe that multiple shooters fired shots outside the club. One victim was shot and killed, two men were shot in their legs, and a woman suffered a gunshot wound to her neck. Police are still investigating for leads on the shooting suspects.
Attorney contributor Anjali Nigam specializes in civil law in the state of Texas. Anjali often represents victims injured in violent crimes, such as club shootings. Recently, he explained victims' legal rights, focusing on when they could sue if shot outside a club.
"Lounge, nightclub, and bar owners are required to provide protection for their employees and customers. Crimes, such as shootings or stabbings, can often be prevented by implementing basic security measures. A club owner is responsible for having adequate security to reduce the risk of these dangers. Security cameras, trained security personnel, and adequate parking lot lighting are some basic security measures an establishment such as these might provide. Nightclub owners can be held liable in a civil lawsuit if they fail to implement a sufficient safety plan."
"Club shooting victims will need to show that the shooting was foreseeable in order to file a civil suit. If the establishment or its location had an uptick in violence, but the owner failed to increase security, the shooting could be seen as predictable. The victims of nightclub shootings and their families should seek legal advice from an experienced violent crimes attorney in order to learn more about their option to sue for compensation."