Wrongful Death & Negligent Security Claims
The families of Christopher Allen and Steven Stratis may have cases for Wrongful Death claims due to negligent or inadequate security against The Rock Irish Pub in Lake Worth Beach, Florida. Reginald Gordon, who remains in critical condition, and Daquan Sigler, who has been treated and released, may also have cases for negligent or inadequate security.
How was a patron with a firearm able to enter the premises? Were there insufficient security personnel or other reasonable safety measures in place to protect patrons and employees? Why weren’t law enforcement officers or security guards present at The Rock Irish Pub during late-night hours?
What Happened at The Rock Irish Pub?
A tragic shooting unfolded on December 10 at The Rock Irish Pub in Lake Worth Beach, leaving two men dead and two others wounded. The incident has shaken the local community and revealed the devastating consequences of a single act of violence. While investigators have made arrests in the case, questions remain about the chain of events leading to the confrontation and the pursuit of justice for the victims and their families.
The incident began shortly before 1 a.m. when an altercation erupted between Michael B. Vititoe, 19, and several bar patrons. Witnesses and surveillance footage suggest that Vititoe, accompanied by Morey S. Pinard III, 23, became involved in a heated exchange inside the bar. Investigators allege that Vititoe punched at least one man before Pinard escalated the situation by pulling out a firearm and opening fire in the crowded establishment.
Tragic Outcomes
The tragic outcome of the shooting was the loss of Christopher Allen, 33, and Steven Stratis, 25, who suffered fatal injuries. Reginald Gordon, 50, remains in critical condition, while Daquan Sigler, 30, has been treated and released. All four men were co-workers at the Old Key Lime House restaurant in Lantana and had been celebrating together earlier that evening.
Surveillance footage later showed Vititoe and Pinard fleeing the scene in a gray Dodge Charger, which investigators tracked to a Boynton Beach parking garage. Authorities arrested Pinard on two counts of second-degree murder and two counts of attempted second-degree murder, while Vititoe faces charges of simple battery and accessory after the fact.
Seeking Justice and Compensation for the Victims and Families
The sudden loss of life and critical injuries caused by the Lake Worth shooting highlight the immense pain and confusion that families endure in the wake of violent crimes. The victims—Christopher Allen and Steven Stratis—were more than just names in a report; they were co-workers, friends, and loved ones whose lives were cut short in a senseless act of violence. For Reginald Gordon and Daquan Sigler, this tragedy’s physical and emotional toll will linger long after the events of that night.
In cases like this, justice means more than criminal convictions. It involves holding all persons and businesses accountable, ensuring support for survivors and their families, and helping those affected by violence to find closure. Civil claims for compensation can also play a critical role, allowing victims and their loved ones to seek compensation for medical bills, loss of income, funeral expenses, and emotional distress.
Florida Property Owners Have a Duty to Keep Residents and Visitors Safe
Under Florida premises liability law, business owners, such as bars, have a duty to provide reasonable security of their premises to reduce the opportunity for criminals to engage in violent acts such as shootings, robberies, rape, or murder. When they fail to do so, and a violent act occurs that results in severe injury or death, the surviving family members may be able to file a lawsuit against the company for negligent or inadequate security.
Key property security methods include security cameras/closed-circuit TVs, fences, on-premises security personnel, and alert and attentive premises managers, owners, and workers. When an act of violence occurs, the premises owner may be liable because they failed to secure the property adequately.
The Role of GOLDLAW in Pursuing Justice
In situations involving violent incidents, navigating the legal system can be overwhelming for victims and their families. That’s where experienced legal representation makes all the difference. At GOLDLAW, our attorneys specialize in representing victims and their families in complex cases for inadequate security involving wrongful death, personal injury, and violent crimes.
Our team is dedicated to uncovering the facts, holding responsible parties accountable, and ensuring victims and families receive the compensation they may deserve. Whether through personal injury lawsuits, wrongful death claims, or other legal avenues, GOLDLAW fights tirelessly to secure justice and provide a path toward healing.
Standing Strong for the Victims of Lake Worth Beach, Florida
The Lake Worth shooting at The Rock Irish Pub is a stark reminder of how violence can tear families and communities apart. The victims and their loved ones deserve justice—not only in the criminal courts but also through civil legal action for compensation.
If you or someone you know has been affected by this tragedy or a similar incident, GOLDLAW is here to help. Our experienced attorneys are ready to listen to your story, guide you through the legal process, and fight for the justice you deserve.
At GOLDLAW, we don’t just represent clients—we stand with them every step of the way.
If you want a FREE, confidential consultation about an incident, call the firm and speak to a West Palm Beach or Lake Worth Beach negligent security or wrongful death lawyer at (561) 222-2222.
