South Bend, IN - Michael Miles Arrested In Fatal Shooting at Cheers Pub

Indiana Bar Shooting Leaves One Dead

ABC 57 has reported that a shooting occurred at Cheers Pub located at 103 S Dixie Way, South Bend, IN 46637. 

On December 16, 2021, an altercation broke out between four patrons at the bar. During the fight, the suspect, Michael Miles, pulled out a gun and shot it. Security escorted Miles out of the bar, but he returned shortly after and shot the victim in the chest, killing him. Miles then exited the bar and drove away. 

The suspect was later arrested and charged with murder in addition to unlawful possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon. 

Lawsuits For Fatal Bar Shootings

Attorney contributor Brian Kent is an experienced bar shooting lawyer in the state of Indiana. Brian helps families of fatal bar shooting victims get gunshot settlements through civil lawsuits. He shared his thoughts regarding filing lawsuits against negligent bar owners during a recent conversation. 

"It is not surprising to hear of numerous reports of violence at establishments such as bars and nightclubs. However, bar owners are tasked with providing safety to their patrons and staff. This legal obligation includes implementing violent crime deterrents such as security cameras, ample lighting, and a team of trained security personnel. These measures are to decrease the bar's risk of violent crime occurrences. If a bar owner fails to provide standard security, they could be held accountable for the crimes on their property."

"If a bar shooting occurs and the victim is killed, authorities should investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting. While criminal charges can be filed against the perpetrator in a criminal lawsuit, victims may have grounds to file a civil suit as well. An experienced bar shooting lawyer will guide the victim's family through the legal process. This will include proving the bar owner was negligent, and the crime was reasonably foreseeable. Their legal team will determine if the owner was aware of any increase in violence in the area and if they provided adequate upgrades to their safety to prevent violent crimes like stabbings and shootings. If the court finds the bar owner was negligent, the victim's family may be awarded a gunshot settlement to help cover the damages caused by the fatal shooting."

Sources: 

ABC 57