A highly anticipated civil trial is set to begin in Galveston, Texas, where a lawsuit accuses the parents of Dimitrios Pagourtzis of negligence for failing to secure the weapons he allegedly used in the 2018 Santa Fe High School shooting. The attack resulted in the deaths of 10 people and injuries to 13 others.
Opening Statements and Background
Opening statements are expected on Wednesday as family members of seven victims killed and four wounded seek justice in the civil trial. Dimitrios Pagourtzis, who was 17 at the time, has been charged with capital murder but has been declared incompetent to stand trial and remains in a state hospital.
Details of the Lawsuit
The lawsuit targets Pagourtzis and his parents, Antonios Pagourtzis and Rose Marie Kosmetatos, aiming to hold them financially responsible for the shooting. The families are pursuing at least $1 million in damages, alleging the parents knew their son was a risk and failed to secure the handgun and shotgun used in the attack.
Allegations and Responses
The lawsuit claims Pagourtzis’ parents ignored signs of his emotional distress and violent fantasies. “We look forward to obtaining justice for the victims of the senseless tragedy,” said Clint McGuire, an attorney for the plaintiffs. Lori Laird, representing the parents, did not comment. Roberto Torres, representing Pagourtzis, denies the allegations, citing his client’s mental impairment.
Family Frustrations and Legal Precedents
Families of the victims have expressed frustration over the delayed criminal trial, seeking closure through the civil case. Previous lawsuits following mass shootings have seen significant verdicts, including a $200 million award in a Tennessee Waffle House shooting case and the conviction of Jennifer and James Crumbley in Michigan.
