Two Teens Injured in Shooting at Madison on Mercer Apartments in Macon
The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office responded to an emergency call made for a report of gun violence at the Madison on Mercer apartment complex in Macon, GA
Once on scene, law enforcement found one teenager suffering from a gunshot wound. The 17-year old boy was taken to a local hospital for treatment, and has since been released. Officials were later notified that a second victim, 15, had also been shot, and had previously been taken to a medical facility to seek care. He is currently listed in stable condition.
As for the events surrounding the shooting, the BCSO is still actively investigating the scene, looking for evidence or information that may lead to a suspect or arrest. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the authorities through the appropriate channels.
Applying Georgia’s Negligent Security Law
In Georgia, property owners have a legal responsibility to ensure their premises are secure for residents, visitors, and guests. When property owners fail to implement adequate security measures, however, they can be held liable under the state’s negligent security laws. This is especially true in areas known for higher risks of crime.
Negligent security occurs when property owners fail to take basic safety measures, like keeping parking lots well-lit, securing doors and entry points, or installing working surveillance systems. If a violent crime such as an assault, robbery, or homicide happens as a result of these security failures, the property owner may be held responsible for creating or allowing an unsafe environment that made the crime more likely.
By taking proactive steps to secure the premises, such as conducting regular safety checks, maintaining property borders and fences, or improving lighting conditions, property owners can reduce the risk of criminal activity and fulfill their legal obligations. Failing to do so not only puts tenants, guests, and even employees at risk, but also exposes property owners to serious legal consequences.
An Apartment Complex with a History of Criminal Activity
This is not the first time the apartment complex located on Mercer University Drive has had reports of gunfire. Prior to new management, the complex, formerly known as the Macon Garden apartments, had at least three different incidents on property.
Within days of each other, shootings took place in March of 2015, killing Tavarous Veal, 19, and wounding Terry Brown, 23. Before that, Tyrell Javon Jackson, 23-years old, was shot in the head and seriously injured. One year prior, in January 2014, a double shooting left Quincy Smith, 20-years old, and Antiquilla London, 26, injured and in the hospital.
Even after new management in 2020, police were called to the complex in June of 2021 to respond to a fight that broke out. While no shots may have been fired, the history of violent criminal activity occurring on property is alarming.
Who Can Demand Justice?
When violent crimes occur due to negligent security, victims and their families often face overwhelming physical, emotional, and financial hardship. While law enforcement can investigate the crime and hold offenders accountable, they cannot force property owners to take responsibility for failing to provide a safe environment. That responsibility falls to the victims and their families.
By pursuing a civil claim against the property owner, victims have the opportunity to recover financial compensation for medical bills, lost wages, rehousing costs, and other damages resulting from the crime. No amount of money can ever undo the trauma of being a victim of violent crime, but seeking justice through the legal system can offer victims a sense of closure and accountability.
Moreover, legal action can serve as a powerful deterrent to negligent property owners. When they are held accountable in a court of law for their inaction, it pressures them to take necessary precautions to improve their security systems. By demanding justice, victims not only seek redress for their personal injuries, but also work to prevent future tragedies from occurring, sparing others from the same harm and making their communities safer.
Together we can Make Georgia Safe, one community at a time.