19-Year-Old Killed In Shooting at Hazlehurst Circle K Gas Station
Officers from the Hazlehurst Police Department were called to a Georgia gas station and Circle K after reports of a shooting. Upon arrival, police found Gary Allen “Bubba” Ryals, Jr., age 19, with a gunshot wound. He was transported to a local hospital to treatment. Tragically, Ryals was later pronounced dead from his injuries.
Both the Georgia Bureau of Investigation and the Hazlehurst PD are actively investigating the shooting of Gary Ryals. Officials have urged anyone with any information to come forward or leave an anonymous tip.
Does Georgia’s Negligent Security Law Take Effect?
In Georgia, business and property owners have a legal obligation to ensure the safety of their customers, employees, and visitors from foreseeable criminal activity. When they fail to implement basic security measures and disregard safety concerns, they may be held liable under the state’s negligent security laws.
Negligent security arises when owners fail to address common safety risks, such as faulty lighting in parking areas or fuel stations, unsecured entry/exit points, or neglecting to maintain security systems like cameras or alarms. If these lapses in security contribute to a violent crime, the owner may be found legally responsible for any resulting harm.
By proactively addressing these potential security risks, property owners can significantly reduce the likelihood of criminal activity on their premises. Failing to implement these measures, however, not only endangers the lives of those visiting the property, but also exposes the owner to significant legal and financial consequences if a crime occurs.
Concerning Reviews for Circle K Demonstrate a Propensity for Problems
Online Reviews for the Circle K on Jarman St reveal a gas station plagued by dismissive staff and facilities in disrepair. One reviewer writes the station needs “serious updates, but cleaning would be the best update.” Another writes “Terrible service, the cashiers are horrible…”
Perhaps, even more concerning, one review details an experience where a young girl went to use the facilities. “[A]s she was walking to the restroom it was a man in front of the door and she asked him to move. He watched her go in then proceeds to try to open the door thankfully it was locked. The male worker had nothing to say but ‘be greatful he didnt get in.’ Who in their right mind tells a 13 year old that.”
Victims and Families Can Demand Justice
When violent crimes occur due to negligent security, victims (and/or the families they leave behind) often face severe physical, emotional, and financial consequences. While law enforcement officers can investigate the crime, their responsibility does not extend to holding property owners accountable for failing to provide a safe environment. Instead, legal action must be taken to demand the justice these victims deserve.
By filing a civil claim against a negligent property owner, victims can seek compensation for medical expenses, rehousing costs, lost wages, and other damages. While no amount of money can ever undo the loss or trauma from these violent crimes, taking legal action can provide a sense of closure and hold the responsible parties accountable for their negligence.
In addition to providing financial relief, pursuing justice sends a strong message that property owners must take safety concerns seriously. Holding owners accountable for their negligence encourages them to implement better security measures, such as hiring security personnel, keeping the premises from falling into disrepair, and installing monitored surveillance cameras. By demanding justice, victims are not only fighting for their own rights, but helping to prevent similar incidents from happening to others in the future.
Together we can Make Georgia Safe, one community at a time.