The Travyon Martin shooting has reached it’s conclusion as parents Tracy Marin and Sybrina Fulton have settled a wrongful death lawsuit they held against the homeowner’s association of the neighborhood in which their son was killed.
The case, which received national attention after publicity increased via social media, has been controversial and divisive due to the particular details of the case.
Seventeen-year old Martin was fatally shot February 26, 2012 in a gated community in Florida by Geroge Zimmerman, a neighborhood watch captain on patrol. Zimmerman resided in the gated community, the Retreat at Twin Lakes in Sanford, Florida. Per the homeowner’s association’s February 2012 newsletter, Zimmerman was the official contact person in the case of a neighborhood danger concern or watch issue.
Reportedly, Zimmerman spotted Martin walking within the gated neighborhood. The unarmed teen was wearing a hoodie pulled up over his head to shield himself from the rain. Zimmerman contacted the police, as he felt Martin looked suspicious, specifically stating that the teen looks as if “he was up to no good.” The police contacted via 911 told Zimmerman to remain where he was in his SUV and not to engage the teenager. Zimmerman instead followed the teen as he walked to his father’s girlfriend’s house, where he was residing.
In response to Zimmerman’s actions, Martin tackled the older man and attempted to punch him and slam his head on the road or sidewalk, Zimmerman reported to the police. Reportedly in self-defense, Zimmerman drew his handgun and fatally shot Martin in the chest.
Martin was unarmed throughout the altercation.
Zimmerman has been charged with second-degree murder and will be tried in June. At this time, Zimmerman’s plea remains one of self-defense.
In the meantime, Benjamin Crump, the Martin family lawyer, filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the homeowner’s association. At the time of this posting, the lawsuit has been settled for an unspecified amount. As is common in wrongful death suits such as this, the Retreat at Twin Lakes homeowner’s association did not admit or confess to any guilt in Martin’s death or Zimmerman’s actions as neighborhood watch captain. All parties are required to remain confidentiality.
The information provided here was provided to the public at the Seminole County, Florida, courthouse and was communicated to the press.
Crump also plans to sue Zimmerman for wrongful death as well, in addition to his second degree murder chargers.
Prior to the settlement, Crump, the Martin family, and the homeowner’s association attempted to mediate the settlement, but the efforts fell apart once the Martins rejected the association’s initial offer, according to Zimmerman’s attorney, Mark O’Mara. Negotiations have since resumed and settlement has been reached.
Although legal action does not bring back a deceased family member or loved one, a successful wrongful death lawsuit can ensure the responsible parties are hold accountable for their actions. To receive a free case evaluation from an experienced wrongful death attorney, contact the Killino Firm today. Our attorneys can walk you through the legal process and ensure you receive the compensation you may be entitled to. Contact us today.
