A fatal shooting at an apartment complex can leave families facing not only the emotional impact of a sudden loss but also difficult questions about whether the tragedy could have been prevented.

Although the individual responsible for the shooting may face criminal prosecution, an apartment owner or property manager may also bear civil liability if inadequate security measures contributed to a foreseeable risk of violent crime. 

In Georgia, a wrongful death claim may allow eligible family members to seek compensation when negligent security or other breaches of a property owner’s duty of care are shown to have played a role in the death.