According to Fox 26 on July 15th, 2023, a man opened fire at Sally's Sports Bar located at 8724 Fulton St, Houston, TX 77022, leaving two men and one woman injured. The Houston Police Department (HPD) swiftly responded to the scene and has now announced the arrest of the suspect responsible for the shooting.
The suspect, identified as 21-year-old Derick M. Cole Santiago, has been taken into custody and charged with three counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. HPD Major Assaults and Family Violence Division Detectives, Windham and Brown, provided further details regarding the incident.
The shooting took place around 4:20 a.m. on the morning of July 15th. HPD officers were dispatched to Sally's Sports Bar, in response to a report of a shooting. Upon arrival, they discovered two males, aged 33 and 31, as well as a 26-year-old female, all suffering from gunshot wounds.
Emergency medical services were summoned immediately, and all three victims were transported to a local hospital for medical treatment. Thankfully, their conditions have been reported as stable, providing a glimmer of hope amid this tragic event.
After the recent shooting, questions arise about the legal options available to bar shooting victims seeking justice. To delve deeper into this matter, we spoke with attorney Anjali Nigam, Esq., an experienced Texas-based violent crimes accident lawyer. In this discussion, we explore the potential for civil cases against those responsible for such tragic incidents and the role negligence and inadequate security might play. Discover valuable insights and guidance as we discuss the legal recourse available to victims in their pursuit of justice and compensation.
Darla Medina: We're reminded of the devastating impact of gun violence on innocent victims. Could you shed some light on what options bar shooting victims may have in pursuing a civil case against those responsible?
Anjali Nigam: Absolutely, Darla. In situations like these, victims of bar shootings may have legal recourse through civil litigation. They can pursue a civil case against the individuals responsible for the shooting and potentially against the establishment itself if negligence or inadequate security measures played a role.
Darla Medina: That's interesting, Anjali. Could you explain what negligence or inadequate security might entail in these cases?
Anjali Nigam: Certainly, Darla. Establishments such as bars are responsible for providing a reasonably safe environment for their patrons. This includes implementing adequate security measures like surveillance cameras, trained security personnel, and proper crowd control protocols. If it can be shown that the establishment failed to meet these standards, and that their negligence contributed to the shooting, they may be held liable.
Darla Medina: I see. So, in addition to pursuing criminal charges, victims can potentially seek compensation for their injuries and trauma through a civil lawsuit. What are some factors that might impact the success of such a case?
Anjali Nigam: Each case is unique, but factors such as evidence of negligence or inadequate security, the severity of the injuries sustained, and the impact on the victims' lives will play a crucial role. It's important to consult with an experienced attorney who can assess the specifics of each situation and guide victims through the legal process.
Darla Medina: That's valuable advice, Anjali. For those affected by such tragic incidents, what should be their first step in pursuing a civil case?
Anjali Nigam: The first step is to seek immediate medical attention and ensure their well-being. Following that, it is crucial for victims to consult with an attorney specializing in violent crimes and personal injury cases. An attorney can guide them through the legal complexities, gather evidence, and build a strong case on their behalf.