In a tragic incident on August 18, 2024, two young men lost their lives in a shooting at the Sleep Inn on Broad Street in Sumter, South Carolina. Saquan Logan, 20, and Tyriq Demari Spann, 19, were found dead at the scene from apparent gunshot wounds. The shooting occurred around 4:30 a.m.
Following an investigation, the Sumter Police Department arrested two suspects: one 19-year-old man and one 23-year old man. One is being charged with two counts of murder and possession of a weapon during a violent crime, while another is being charged as an accessory after the fact for allegedly helping the other man cover up evidence and evade police.
Can Hotels Be Held Liable for Violent Crimes on Their Premises?
When violent incidents like shootings occur at hotels, it raises questions about the property owner's responsibility. Under premises liability law, hotels have a duty to provide reasonable security measures to protect their guests from foreseeable harm, including criminal acts by third parties.
In cases where a hotel fails to implement adequate safety measures, they may be held liable for injuries or deaths resulting from violent crimes on their property. This concept falls under the legal theory of negligent security.
What Constitutes Negligent Security in Hotels?
Negligent security can take various forms in a hotel setting. Some common issues that might contribute to violent crime due to a negligent business include:
- Insufficient lighting in parking lots, hallways, or common areas
- Malfunctioning locks on guest room doors
- Lack of security personnel or inadequate staffing
- Broken or absent security cameras
- Failure to properly screen or train employees
- Ignoring previous incidents or complaints about safety concerns
Hotels have a responsibility to assess potential risks and implement appropriate security measures to protect their guests. When they fail to do so, they may be held accountable for the consequences.
What Do You Need to Prove in a Negligent Security Case?
To establish a successful negligent security claim against a hotel, the following elements typically need to be proven:
- The hotel owed a duty of care to the victim
- The hotel breached this duty by failing to provide adequate security
- This breach directly led to the victim's injuries or death
- The victim or their family suffered damages as a result
Proving these elements often requires a thorough investigation and expert testimony to demonstrate that the hotel's negligence contributed to the incident.
How Can a Lawyer Help with a Negligent Security Case?
Navigating a negligent security case can be complex, especially while dealing with the trauma of a violent incident. An experienced attorney can provide invaluable assistance by:
- Conducting a thorough investigation of the incident and property
- Gathering crucial evidence to support your claim
- Identifying all potentially liable parties
- Locating and analyzing relevant insurance policies
- Negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf
- Filing a lawsuit and representing your interests in court if necessary
A skilled lawyer can help ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation for your losses.
What Damages Can Be Recovered in a Negligent Security Case?
Victims of violent crimes or their families may be entitled to various forms of compensation in a negligent security case. These damages can include:
💉 Medical expenses (past and future)
💼 Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
😢 Pain and suffering
🧠 Emotional distress
⚰️ Funeral and burial costs (in wrongful death cases)
👥 Loss of companionship or support
The specific damages available will depend on the circumstances of each case and the extent of the injuries or losses suffered.
Contact a Negligent Security Lawyer for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been a victim of a violent crime at a hotel or any other business property in South Carolina, it's crucial to understand your legal rights. At Spetsas Buist Accident Injury Lawyers, we have extensive experience handling negligent security cases and can help you seek the justice and compensation you deserve.
Don't face this challenging situation alone. Contact our office at 321-LAWSUIT for a free consultation with a knowledgeable negligent security attorney. Let us put our expertise to work for you and your family during this difficult time.
