Entry to Bradford Ridge
Local News
Police are investigating a Bradford Ridge apartment shooting, which claimed the life of 33-year-old Florencia Gomez-Mendez Saturday, January 24, 2015.
According to Clayton News Daily, Mr. Mendez was shot in what appears to have been a robbery shortly after 9:00pm at the Bradford Ridge Apartments on Sylvia Drive. Mr. Mendez was reportedly walking into the apartment complex with a friend when a group of three men began walking behind them. One of the assailants apparently hit Mr. Mendez’s friend on the back of the head, striking him unconscious. Per media reports, Mr. Mendez suffered a gunshot wound to the chest. He later perished from injuries.
Authorities believe robbery was the motive for the attack. Police have not yet identified the three assailants.
Our Legal Take
As authorities continue to search for the three suspects, The Murray Law Firm is questioning whether a fatal security lapse at the Bradford Ridge Apartments may have contributed to this tragedy.
Forest Park Crime Map (City-Data.com)
Recent crime reports reveal a staggering number of robberies and assaults in the Forest Park community. What efforts were made by the owner and management of Bradford Ridge to improve security following previous incidents of community violence?
What property access controls, such as security patrols and fencing, are available to protect residents and deter crime?
Given the recent history of community violence, The Murray Law Firm suggests it is possible the owner and management of Bradford Ridge Apartments failed in their duty to protect Mr. Mendez. Per Georgia law, apartment owners are required to protect residents and guests legally on premises from any foreseeable harm.
Should Bradford Ridge Apartments be found at fault for failing to provide adequate security to Mr. Mendez, his family may elect to pursue civil claims in his wrongful death. Claims of this magnitude, potentially in the millions of dollars, will demand the apartment complex reevaluate security measures. Additionally, such claims will send a gravely-needed warning to other local property owners of the need to make resident safety their first priority.
Photographs and a thorough inspection of the property will need to be performed immediately on the family’s behalf. The Gomez-Mendez family should retain an experienced premises liability firm without delay to ensure all evidence, such as surveillance footage and broken lighting, is preserved and their best interests are protected.
The Murray Law Firm has extensive experience in protecting victims and families devastated by security negligence and we offer our legal expertise, if needed. Anyone seeking further information or legal representation is encouraged to contact us at 404.842.1600. Consultations are free and confidential.
