Valenzuela Law Firm, PA | Trial Attorney
Attorney Henry E. Valenzuela

$1.25M Settlement against Fast Food Restaurant in Shooting Case

A 68 year old woman and her friend were having breakfast late one evening at a fast food restaurant located in a section of Hillsborough County with a very high crime rate. A burglar entered the restaurant with the intent to rob the store. After entering the restaurant the burglar realized that an off duty police officer was sitting in the back of the restaurant eating breakfast. The burglar drew his weapon and shot at the officer. The officer immediately returned fire. The elderly woman was caught in a crossfire. She was struck in the jaw and torso by bullets from the officer and burglar. She suffered severe injuries to her face and upper body, but survived. A civil action was brought against the restaurant chain for failing to implement proper security measures in light of the extensive history of prior violent criminal history on the premises at night. The case resulted in a settlement for$1.25M.