In a heartbreaking incident that has left a community in mourning, Mari Creighton, a 21-year-old senior and volleyball player at Albany State University, was tragically killed in a shooting at Elleven45 Lounge in Buckhead, Atlanta. The shooting, which occurred in the early hours of a Sunday morning, resulted in the deaths of two individuals and injuries to several others, including Creighton's niece, Taylor Holmes. According to Atlanta police, the shooter targeted one of the two victims, though it remains unclear who the intended target was.
The family of Mari Creighton, represented by attorney Michael Sterling, has filed a Georgia shooting victims lawsuit against Elleven45 Lounge, alleging negligence on the part of the club. Sterling argues that the club failed to uphold its basic duty to provide a safe environment for its patrons by allowing a firearm into the premises. "This act of negligence stole the life of an exceptional young woman," Sterling stated, emphasizing that the tragedy was preventable.
The incident has sparked outrage among Creighton's family and the broader community. Creighton's mother, Tracey Eson, expressed her anger over the club's failure to protect its patrons, stating, "Had they not dropped the ball and made sure that security checked for guns, Mari would be here today." The family has called for the closure of Elleven45 Lounge and urged for enhanced security measures at all clubs in Atlanta.
Elleven45 Lounge has a history of violent incidents, with records showing that Atlanta police officers have been involved in off-duty security details at the club. Despite this, there have been only three calls for violent crimes since 2020, including another shooting in November 2023 and a stabbing in 2021. The club's owner, who also operated the now-closed Encore Hookah Bar and Bistro, has faced scrutiny from the city in the past for similar issues.
In response to the shooting, the City of Atlanta, under the direction of the Mayor, is investigating the incident and exploring various measures to ensure community safety. The Solicitor General's office is also involved in investigating the club. The Mayor's office has expressed its commitment to leveraging all available tools to maintain the safety and vitality of the community.
Mari Creighton is remembered as a devoted daughter, loving sister, and admired student-athlete. Her untimely death has left a profound void in her family, who describe her as a "golden child" who was on track to graduate with honors. The tragedy has not only affected her family but has also resonated with the community, highlighting the urgent need for improved safety measures in public venues.
As an attorney specializing in representing victims of crime, I find the circumstances surrounding the death of Mari Creighton deeply troubling. This case underscores the critical importance of ensuring that establishments prioritize the safety of their patrons. The allegations of negligence against Elleven45 Lounge highlight a failure to implement adequate security measures, which is a fundamental responsibility of any business operating in the hospitality industry.
In cases like this, it is essential to hold establishments accountable for their negligence to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future. The legal action taken by Mari's family is not only a pursuit of justice for their loss but also a necessary step in advocating for safer environments for all patrons. As we move forward, it is crucial for businesses to reassess their security protocols and for local authorities to enforce stringent safety standards to protect the community.
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