On September 22, 2024, a heartbreaking incident unfolded at the Plantersville Store in Georgetown County, South Carolina. Natiya Browne, a 16-year-old from Charlotte, North Carolina, lost her life in a shooting at the convenience store located on U.S. Highway 701 South.
According to reports, Georgetown County Sheriff's deputies responded to the scene at around 2:45 p.m., finding Browne on the ground with two gunshot wounds to her chest. Despite swift action from emergency services, she was tragically pronounced dead at the scene.
The Georgetown County Sheriff's Office quickly identified 20-year-old Daemon Hykem Sanders of Georgetown as a suspect. After a brief manhunt, Sanders was apprehended shortly after 7 p.m. the same day. Sanders was charged with murder and taken into custody at the Georgetown County Detention Center.
What Types of Negligent Security Incidents Occur at South Carolina Convenience Stores?
Convenience stores in South Carolina can unfortunately become sites of violent crimes due to inadequate security measures. Common incidents include:
- Shootings
- Stabbings
- Sexual assaults
- Kidnappings
These events often occur due to a lack of proper security protocols and equipment, potentially leaving store owners liable for negligent security claims under South Carolina law.
How Can South Carolina Convenience Stores Improve Security to Prevent Violent Crimes?
To reduce the risk of violent incidents, South Carolina convenience store owners should consider implementing:
- Well-lit parking areas and store interiors
- Functional security cameras with clear views of all areas
- Panic buttons for employees
- Cash management systems to reduce on-hand cash
- Regular security training for staff
- Clear sightlines from the cash register to all parts of the store
- Security guards, especially during high-risk hours
Proper implementation of security measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of violent crimes and protect both customers and employees.
What Factors Contribute to Negligent Security Claims Against Convenience Stores in South Carolina?
Several issues can lead to a South Carolina convenience store being held liable for negligent security:
- Failure to address known security risks
- Inadequate lighting in the store or parking lot
- Non-functional or absent security cameras
- Lack of staff training on security protocols
- Failure to respond to previous criminal incidents on the property
- Insufficient cash handling procedures
Under South Carolina law, store owners have a duty to provide reasonable security measures to protect their customers from foreseeable harm. Failing to do so can result in tragic incidents like the one at Plantersville Store.
Contact a South Carolina Negligent Security Lawyer at Spetsas Buist
If you or a loved one has been a victim of a violent crime at a convenience store or any other business property in South Carolina, the experienced team at Spetsas Buist Accident Injury Lawyers is here to help. Our firm handles cases throughout South Carolina and offers:
- Free consultations
- No fee unless we win
- No interest charged on case costs
- Willingness to take cases to trial when necessary
- A track record of millions won for our clients
- Direct access to your lawyer's email and cell phone
Don't face this challenging time alone. Call us at 321-LAWSUIT to discuss your potential South Carolina negligent security claim with a dedicated personal injury attorney. Let our experienced team fight for the justice and compensation you deserve under South Carolina law.
