FLORIDA CITY, FLA. (WSVN) - - The family of a child who tragically lost his life in a Florida City shooting announced the filing of a lawsuit against the owner and manager of the apartment complex where the shooting occurred, claiming negligent security and wrongful death.
Authorities said 9-year-old Antavious Scott was fatally shot last November in the area of the South Point Apartments along West Lucy Street and Northwest Ninth Avenue after gunfire erupted into a group of individuals outside the area.
Police later arrested and charged 19-year-old Montreal Savontae Jackson Jr. with second-degree murder with a weapon for his involvement in the shooting.
Shanika Williams, the boy’s mother, alongside the family attorney, Michael Haggard, held a news conference across the street from the apartment complex where the tragic shooting took place, seeking justice and demanding an increase in security at the location, as well as other complexes where high crime is present.
“I just don’t want this to happen to anybody else,” said Shanika, speaking through tears. “Antavious was the world to me. He was my everything.”
“They provide no security,” said Haggard. “Despite the gang violence that has been occurring in Cutler Manor, Cutler Bay, Florida City. They have not added any security.”
The 18-page wrongful death lawsuit, filed Monday, alleges the failure of the property owners and managers to provide adequate security measures, such as a working gate or surveillance cameras, despite the known presence and history of criminal activity in the area, led to the death of their child.
“Defendant, POAH SOUTHPOINT CROSSING, LLC, created an atmosphere on the premises of the apartment complex that facilitated the commission of crimes against persons,” reads a part of the lawsuit.
According to the lawsuit, the apartment complex did not have proper lighting, an adequate amount of surveillance cameras or guards at the time of the shooting. They also said the front gate did not work.
“That gate is broken today. Six months later as we stand here,” said Haggard.
He reiterated that if the proper measures had been sought, Shanika’s son’s death would’ve been prevented.
“Had they provided proper security this would have never happened,” said Haggard.
Loved one called for justice.
“If there would have been security like there should have been, my grandson would be here today,” said Teretha Williams, Scott’s grandmother.
7News reached out to the property owners. In a statement, they said that while they extend their condolences to the family, they can’t comment on pending litigation.
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