According to WREG Channel 3 News, a shooting took place inside the American Legion located on 1615 1st Street, Kennett, MO 63857.
Police reported that they responded to the shooting on Sunday, February 21, 2021, before 12:30 a.m. Five victims were found with gunshot wounds. Two victims were flown to a Cape Girardeau hospital in critical condition, while two other victims were treated at local hospitals.
According to Kennett Mayor Chancellor Wayne, the building is available for rent, and that night was being rented for a private party. The incident is still under investigation by the Missouri State Patrol and Dunklin County Sheriff’s office.
Attorney contributor, Ryan Frazier, is an experienced violent crimes attorney and has represented numerous civil lawsuits involving shooting victims and their families. In a recent interview, Ryan explains the legal rights of victims of shootings on commercial property:
"There needs to be a safe and protected environment surrounding commercial property, such as rental venues. This legal obligation should be at the forefront of club owners' minds at all times. The property owner can use security measures like well-lit parking lots and proper surveillance equipment to ensure the protection of its patrons. When a customer is injured on a rental venue property, the victim and their family have every right to question the safety measures of the establishment. If an experienced violent crimes attorney can prove the property owner was indeed negligent, then a civil lawsuit can deem them liable."
"The property owner may be considered liable if a court of law finds the crime to have been foreseeable. A foreseeable crime is one that could have been prevented. An example would be if the neighborhood's crime rate has increased, but if the establishment's security measures did not, and a crime occurs, it may be considered a foreseeable crime. In such cases, the property owner may be considered negligent. Victims of such crimes should obtain the legal guidance of an experienced violent crime attorney as they may have grounds for a civil lawsuit and possible compensation for any damages."