Sacramento, CA - 1 Killed, 1 Wounded in Shooting at Costanza’s Bar

Shooting at Costanza’s Bar Leaves Two Struck by Gunfire

According to CBS Sacramento, a shooting occurred in the early morning of April 22nd within the patio area of Costanza’s bar. The business is located near 21st and L streets.

Police reported that two men were injured by at least one gunshot wound each. While one individual is expected to live, the other man was taken to the hospital and passed away.

A coroner later identified the deceased victim as 20-year-old Joseph Valadez, according to CBS 13. A vigil was held in his memory on April 25th.

Authorities believe that there was a fight before six total gunshots were fired. The identity of the second victim has not been released.

Motive and suspect information are not yet available.

Legal Options of Victims of Bar Shootings 

Attorney contributor, Bobby Thompson, has worked on a myriad of civil lawsuits involving victims of violent crimes. In an interview, we asked Bobby about his knowledge regarding the legal options of victims shot outside of a bar and their families below:

“Property owners have the legal obligation to protect their patrons and customers at all costs. By providing adequate security, bar and club owners are putting the safety of their employees and guests first and foremost. Proper lighting, attentive guards, and reliable staff members can be implemented as practical security measures that can assist in the protection of those entering bars and clubs looking for an enjoyable experience. Victims of shootings on commercial property and their loved ones have the right to question if the security in place is up to par and able to prevent harmful incidents. Suppose a victim’s lawyer can prove that adequate security was not provided at the time of the incident. In that case, the victim may have grounds for a civil lawsuit against the property owner and management of the bar."

“A contributor, when it comes to violent crimes on specific properties, is often negligence. When a shooting is seen as foreseeable, it may be because a bar has not done its absolute best to think of the customers and their overall safety needs. Bars and clubs must make sure that shootings will not be happening on their property, especially when crimes are repetitiously occurring in the vicinity of their businesses. Grounds for a civil lawsuit can come about when there is a combination of predictable crimes and negligent establishments. An experienced attorney can be highly beneficial in these situations as they will give victims and their families the information necessary to explore all their options."

Sources:

CBS Sacramento, CBS 13