People do not think about getting struck by a stray bullet while going about their daily routine. The growing incidence of stray bullet shootings is causing serious injuries, even deaths to innocent people. In a UC Davis Study, researchers concluded that “most people killed or wounded in stray-bullet shootings were unaware of events leading to the gunfire that caused their injuries”. The study also showed that stray bullet shooting incidences were mainly concentrated in big cities. The effects can last a lifetime, causing potential irreparable harm and suffering to victims and their families.
Stray Bullet Shootings In The News
An arrest was made the day after a woman was shot while driving her car in North Philadelphia on Thursday, July 16. The driver and her two female companions heard gunfire but kept going. The victim realized she was shot when she began having back pain. An ABC-6 reporter said officers stated at least 10 shots were fired. One of the bullets pierced the victim’s car, lodging in her back. The suspect in the drug-related shooting faces attempted murder and other charges.
Just two days before, police responded to separate cases in which an elderly man and woman were victims of stray bullet shootings. A 70 year-old man was doing repairs on a neighbor’s porch when two shooters began firing at a person riding a bicycle, according to ABC-6. A few hours later, 79 year-old Lula Mae Tillman was sitting on her porch when two men began arguing and at least one of them fired a gun. Tillman fell as she tried to run, getting shot in the ankle.
MyFoxPhilly reported that a 16 year-old boy is now fighting for his life after a stray bullet struck him in the neck on July 19. A city corrections officer turned himself in, admitting to firing the shots, striking the boy with a stray bullet after arguing with another man at the rec center in the Germantown neighborhood where the teen was playing basketball with friends.
In August 2014, The Guardian published details regarding the stray bullet shooting death of a three-year old Philadelphia girl. The toddler was on a front porch getting her hair braided. Two adults also suffered injuries from stray bullets after gunfire erupted as a result of an argument between two men.
The Devastation Of These Shootings
Medical care from a stray bullet shooting may last a life-time. The ability to work or even function in a normal manner affects finances and quality of life. The death of a loved one due to a stray bullet shooting causes life-long grief and suffering.
The dangers from stray bullet shootings are real. If you can, take cover before shooting starts. The shooter and even the owner of a facility may be held accountable in civil action in a stray bullet shooting.
If you or a loved one is a victim of a stray bullet shooting, contact an experienced attorney to discuss your case and learn your rights in a potential civil case. Responsibility does not necessarily end with the criminal court action.
