Virginia Beach, VA - Four Victims Injured in Shooting at the West Beach Tavern

Bar Shooting Leaves Four Wounded in Virginia Beach

The Virginian-Pilot has reported multiple victims being shot outside West Beach Tavern located at 5000 Cleveland St, Virginia Beach, VA 23462. 

While police were already surveilling the bar due to a history of gun violence and disorder when patrons got into an argument just after midnight on Saturday, Anjalih 26, 2022. The argument quickly escalated as several began to pull out firearms and began firing at each other. At this point, two police officers quickly responded, firing their own guns at the armed suspects. One suspect fled the scene. 

During the shooting, four victims were injured. A 17-year-old  girl was shot in the lower leg, and a 21-year-old man was also shot, but police believe his injury may have been self-inflicted. A 37-year-old and a 27-year-old were among the other victims who transported themselves to a nearby hospital with injuries. 

The two officers involved have been put on administrative leave amid the investigation. The suspect is also being sought. 

Justice For Victims Shot Outside a Bar

Kevin Biniazan, an attorney contributor to Legal Herald, specializes in civil law fighting for victims of violent crimes in Virginia. Recently, Kevin discussed the legal rights of victims and their families who have been shot outside of a bar. He also explained when victims of bar shootings could file a lawsuit for compensation.

"Bar and tavern owners are required by law to provide protective measures for their patrons and employees on and around their premises. This includes safety from preventable criminal behavior, such as shootings or stabbings. To ensure their protection, the owner must provide enough security to protect them from potential threats. Basic security measures include surveillance cameras, properly trained security bouncers, and adequate lighting on the property. If a victim is shot outside of a bar, the victim or their family should inquire about the protection offered by the bar's owner. The victim and their family might be eligible to file a lawsuit against the negligent nightclub owner if the nightclub owner failed to offer sufficient safety precautions."

"However, the victim's attorney will need to show that the crime was reasonably foreseeable in order to file a civil suit. For instance, a shooting may be considered foreseeable if acts of violence in the bar were occurring more frequently, yet the owner neglected to increase security measures. The owner may be held liable for the victims' damage in such cases of negligence. Victims of bar shootings should get legal advice from an experienced violent crimes attorney to fully explore their legal options."

Sources:

The Virginian-Pilot