In the early hours of Wednesday, November 8, 2023, in Boynton Beach, Florida, a violent incident occurred at the Meadows on the Green apartment complex, which lead to a tragic loss of a life. The shooting occurred at approximately 9 a.m. Thereafter, authorities found a woman in the complex's parking area, and she had suffered with multiple gunshot injuries.
Local law enforcement swiftly responded to the crime scene, which is close to several schools, including Freedom Shores Elementary School, Santaluces Community High School, and Royal Palm School. The proximity to the schools and the nature of this crime is distressing because of the danger posed to children.
Robens Cesar, a 41-year-old man, was arrested in connection with the shooting at the apartment complex and now faces first-degree murder charges. The police apprehended him on NW 14th Avenue not long after the shooting.
Pursuing a Negligent Security Claim in Florida After Getting Shot at an Apartment Complex
When a person gets shot at an apartment complex, they’re thrust into a whirlwind of negativity and pain. To add to the misery, they get stuck with tens of thousands of dollars in medical bills and emergency medical treatment. Additionally, folks often have to miss work because of gunshot wounds while they heal and recover.
However, a gunshot victim or the gunshot victim’s family may have rights to pursue compensation under Florida law. Namely, if a landlord or owner negligently failed to implement proper security measures in a location where there’s violent crime, the victim may be able to pursue a negligent security claim.
Ultimately, Florida law says that property owners, including those of apartment complexes, have a legal obligation to ensure the safety and security of their premises for residents and guests. When they fail to do that, and someone gets hurt as a result, they may be held liable for their negligent actions or inactions. So, let’s talk more about negligent security claims in Florida.
Understanding Negligent Security
Negligent security is a legal term that arises from a property owner's failure to provide reasonable security measures and, as a consequence, a person gets injured or killed. Examples of inadequate security might include things like broken gates, insufficient lighting, lack of security personnel, or faulty surveillance systems.
Establishing Your Claim
To establish a negligent security claim, you must prove that the property owner knew or should have known about the potential for criminal activity and did not take appropriate steps to prevent it. It is also necessary to demonstrate that the lack of security directly contributed to your injuries.
Collecting Evidence
Gathering evidence is a crucial step. This may involve documenting the scene, collecting witness statements, and obtaining any available surveillance footage. It is also important to show that there was a foreseeable risk of crime, which the property owner neglected, and this can often be proven by gathering crime data in the area around the apartment complex.
Florida’s Legal Framework
Under Florida law, property owners have a duty to exercise ordinary care in maintaining their premises in a reasonably safe condition. They must anticipate potential harm that could befall tenants and visitors and take action to prevent it.
Seeking Legal Counsel
Engaging a personal injury attorney that handles negligent security and premises liability claims can be vital to a successful outcome. A lawyer will help navigate Florida’s complex legal system, build a strong case, and advocate for the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
