A tragic shooting incident in Buffalo has resulted in significant prison sentences for two men involved in a violent crime that claimed one life and injured two others. The incident, which occurred in July 2023, has finally reached its legal conclusion with both defendants receiving substantial prison terms.
On July 22, 2023, Buffalo Police officers responded to reports of gunfire on Genesee Street near Mortimer Street. When they arrived at the scene, they discovered three victims who had been shot outside a local tavern. Two victims, ages 33 and 44, were transported to Erie County Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries. Tragically, a 31-year-old victim was pronounced dead at the scene. The case concluded recently when a 41-year-old defendant was sentenced to 25 years to life in prison for Murder in the Second Degree and Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Second Degree. His co-defendant, age 26, received a 20-year prison sentence followed by five years of post-release supervision after pleading guilty to charges including Manslaughter in the First Degree. Read the original news report here.
Common Causes of Gun Violence Incidents
Gun violence incidents like the one that occurred on Genesee Street can stem from various factors and circumstances. Understanding these contributing factors helps communities and families recognize potential risks:
- Disputes or altercations that escalate unexpectedly
- Gang-related activities or territorial conflicts
- Drug-related criminal activity
- Inadequate security measures at public establishments
- Easy access to illegal firearms
- Mental health crises without proper intervention
- Alcohol-fueled confrontations at bars and social venues
- Domestic violence situations that spill into public spaces
When gun violence occurs due to someone else's negligence—whether it's inadequate security at a business, failure to prevent known dangerous individuals from accessing firearms, or other preventable circumstances—victims and their families may be entitled to seek legal compensation for their injuries and losses.
Wrongful Death and Personal Injury Claims in Buffalo, NY
Tragic incidents involving gun violence can give rise to both wrongful death and personal injury claims under New York law. When someone is killed or seriously injured due to another party's negligent or intentional actions, surviving family members and injured victims may have grounds to pursue civil compensation separate from any criminal proceedings.
Potential liable parties in gun violence cases may include property owners who failed to provide adequate security, businesses that over-served alcohol to patrons, security companies that didn't properly screen personnel, or individuals who negligently allowed access to firearms. Compensation in these cases can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, funeral costs, and loss of financial support for surviving family members. While no amount of money can undo the trauma and loss caused by gun violence, successful legal action can provide financial stability and hold responsible parties accountable for their negligence.
Damages and Compensation
In gun violence cases, victims and families may be entitled to various types of compensation depending on the specific circumstances and extent of harm suffered:
Economic Damages include tangible financial losses such as medical bills, hospital expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and loss of future earning capacity. For wrongful death cases, this also encompasses funeral and burial expenses.
Non-Economic Damages address the intangible suffering caused by the incident, including pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of companionship, and reduced quality of life. In wrongful death cases, family members may recover for their grief and loss of the deceased's love, guidance, and support.
Punitive Damages may be available in cases involving particularly egregious conduct, designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future.
Compensation is calculated based on evidence including medical records, employment history, expert testimony, and documentation of the victim's life and relationships. The purpose of civil compensation is not only to help victims and families recover financially, but also to promote accountability and encourage better safety practices to prevent future tragedies.
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Why Choose Porter Law Group?
The attorneys at Porter Law Group have decades of experience representing victims of violent crimes and their families throughout New York State. We understand that no family should have to navigate the complex legal system alone while dealing with the trauma of losing a loved one or recovering from serious injuries.
Our seasoned trial lawyers have successfully handled cases involving inadequate security, premises liability, and wrongful death claims. We have the resources and determination to take on large corporations, insurance companies, and other powerful defendants who may try to avoid responsibility for their negligence. Our track record speaks for itself - we've obtained significant settlements and verdicts for families across New York.
We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don't pay attorney fees unless we win your case. Our compassionate legal team will handle every aspect of your claim while you focus on healing and moving forward.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
If you or your family has been affected by gun violence, don't wait to explore your legal options. Time limits apply to personal injury and wrongful death claims in New York, so it's important to act quickly.
Contact Porter Law Group today for your free, no-obligation consultation. Call us at 833-PORTER9 or email us at info@porterlawteam.com. We serve clients throughout New York State and are ready to fight for the justice and compensation your family deserves during this difficult time.
