Judge dismisses lawsuit over mass shooting, teen’s death in South MS. Here’s why
A federal judge dismissed a lawsuit related to a mass shooting in Ocean Springs, Mississippi, but the victim’s mother intends to continue her legal battle in state court.Summary
U.S. District Judge Sul Ozerden dismissed Kimberly Harmon’s lawsuit against the city of Ocean Springs, Jackson County, and officials, finding it lacked specific facts demonstrating a violation of federal civil rights laws. Harmon’s son, Chayse Harmon, 19, was killed in a shooting at The Scratch Kitchen in May 2023, allegedly by Fa’Darius Davon Williams, who is set to stand trial in April 2024. While the federal case was dismissed, the judge allowed Harmon to pursue the case in state court. Harmon currently has a separate lawsuit against the bar’s owner, Brittany Cruso, but her attorneys in that case have recently sought to withdraw. The Scratch Kitchen has since been closed by court order. Harmon remains determined to seek justice for her son, stating, “This is not the end of the story,” and plans to refile in state court.
(Source：Sunherald)