In a heart-wrenching incident on August 27, 2023, three Black individuals—Angela Carr, 52, Jerrald Gallion, 29, and A.J. Laguerre, 19—lost their lives in a racially motivated shooting at a Dollar General store in Jacksonville, Florida. The shooter, 21-year-old Ryan Palmeter, targeted this location after being deterred by security at other venues, including a historically Black college campus.
The families of the victims, represented by prominent civil rights attorney Benjamin Crump and attorneys Michael Haggard and Adam Finkel, have filed a lawsuit against Dollar General's landlord, operator, and security contractor. The lawsuit alleges negligence due to insufficient security measures, which they argue could have prevented the tragedy.
During a press conference, the attorneys and family members called for an end to gun violence and better security measures to protect innocent lives. Benjamin Crump emphasized the immense loss these families have endured and the urgent need for systemic changes to address the pervasive gun violence in the United States.
Quantavious Laguerre, brother of victim A.J. Laguerre, expressed his grief and frustration, stating, "I'm so tired of hearing, 'Oh, you know he's in a better place.' No, I want him here." Similarly, Armisha Payne, daughter of Angela Carr, highlighted the void left in their family, particularly for Carr's 13 grandchildren.
Ryan Palmeter, who committed suicide at the scene, left behind writings that clearly indicated his hatred towards Black people. His history included a 2016 domestic violence incident and a 72-hour involuntary mental health commitment in 2017. Despite these red flags, Palmeter was able to acquire a Glock handgun and an AR-15-style rifle, which he used in the attack.
Michael Haggard, Esq.: "This tragic event underscores the critical need for businesses to implement robust security measures, especially in areas with a history of racial tension. The failure to do so not only endangers lives but also exposes these businesses to significant legal liabilities. The families of Angela Carr, Jerrald Gallion, and A.J. Laguerre deserve justice, and this lawsuit aims to hold accountable those who neglected their duty to provide a safe environment. It is imperative that we address the root causes of gun violence and ensure that such preventable tragedies do not occur again."
The Jacksonville Dollar General shooting has left an indelible mark on the community and the families of the victims. As they seek justice through legal avenues, their plea for an end to gun violence resonates with a broader call for systemic change. Ensuring adequate security and addressing the underlying issues of racial hatred and gun access are crucial steps in preventing future tragedies.
We aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the tragic shooting at Dollar General, the legal actions being taken, and the broader implications for gun violence and security measures. The insights from Michael Haggard, Esq. offer a legal perspective on the responsibilities of businesses and the importance of preventative measures.
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