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Breaking Legal News
Two men were shot outside a Tallahassee bar early Monday morning, according to the Tallahassee Police Department.
The shooting took place at Sharky's Lounge on Sharer Road just before 2:00 a.m. Investigators say a large crowd had gathered near the lounge when the gunfire erupted.
Both victims sustained non-life-threatening injuries and are expected to make full recoveries, police confirmed.
As of this report, no arrests have been made and no suspects have been identified. Despite the lack of an arrest, TPD says there is no active threat to the surrounding community.
The Tallahassee Police Department says the investigation remains active. Authorities have not released additional details regarding a possible motive or the circumstances that led to the shooting.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Tallahassee Police Department.
The factual information above was sourced from wtxl.com as of June 8, 2026.
The attorney commentary below is not specifically about the case reported above. Attorney commentary provided is information about these types of cases in the justice system.
When gunfire breaks out at a bar or lounge, victims are often left confused, injured, and unaware of the full range of legal options available to them. Miami-based Florida crime victim attorney Michael Haggard has spent years representing people harmed in violent incidents at businesses across the state. Haggard discusses how Florida law protects shooting victims, what responsibilities businesses carry for the safety of their patrons, and why taking early action can make all the difference in a civil case.
Editor Darla Medina: When someone is shot at a bar or lounge, most people assume their only option is to wait and see if the shooter gets arrested. Is that true?
Attorney Michael Haggard: Not at all. A criminal case and a civil case are two completely separate roads. Even if police never make an arrest, a victim may still have a strong civil claim — particularly against the establishment where the shooting occurred.
Medina: How can a bar or lounge be held legally responsible for a shooting on their property?
Haggard: Florida law places a responsibility on businesses to provide a reasonably safe environment for their patrons. If a venue knew or should have known that violence was a possibility — based on prior incidents, the size of a crowd, inadequate security staffing, or poor lighting — and failed to take reasonable steps to prevent harm, they can be held accountable. That falls under what we call premises liability.
Medina: What about the shooter themselves — can victims pursue compensation from that person directly?
Haggard: Absolutely. The person who pulled the trigger carries direct legal responsibility. The challenge is that many shooters either aren't caught or don't have the financial resources to compensate a victim adequately. That's exactly why the establishment and their insurance coverage often become the more practical avenue for recovery.
Medina: What should a victim do right away to protect their legal rights?
Haggard: Document everything as early as possible. Seek immediate medical attention and keep every record. If witnesses were present, get their contact information. Photographs of the scene, any surveillance footage — all of that can disappear quickly. And speak with an attorney before giving any recorded statements to insurance companies. What you say early on can significantly impact your case later.
Medina: Is there a time limit for victims to take legal action in Florida?
Haggard: Yes, and this is something people need to take seriously. Florida has a statute of limitations, which means there is a legal deadline to file a civil claim. Missing that window can permanently eliminate a victim's right to compensation, regardless of how strong their case might be. The sooner someone consults an attorney, the better positioned they are.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a shooting at a bar, lounge, or any other business, time matters. The Legal Herald is ready to connect you with an experienced attorney who can review your situation and walk you through your options — at no cost and with no obligation. Do not wait for the criminal justice system to run its course before exploring what you may be entitled to under civil law. Reach out today and take the first step in understanding your rights.
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