The parents of Dimitrios Pagourtzis, the student accused of killing 10 people in a 2018 school shooting in Santa Fe, Texas, are facing a lawsuit seeking at least $1 million in damages. The victims’ attorneys argue that the parents failed to provide the necessary support for Dimitrios’ mental health and did not prevent him from accessing their guns.
The lawsuit, filed by relatives of seven of the people killed and four of the wounded, aims to hold Antonios Pagourtzis and Rose Marie Kosmetatos financially accountable for the tragic shooting. Attorneys representing the victims spoke of the pain and trauma experienced by those affected by the shooting, emphasizing the need to hold the parents responsible.
During the trial, it was discussed how Dimitrios planned the shooting and the mental illness he suffered from. However, the victims’ attorneys argued that there is ample evidence showing Dimitrios’ intention to commit the crime and hold him accountable for his actions.
The parents maintained that they were unaware of their son’s mental health struggles and had no knowledge of his plans. The family stored firearms in a gun safe in the garage and a display cabinet in the living room, from which Dimitrios retrieved weapons for the shooting. The lawsuit also included a Tennessee-based online retailer that sold ammunition to Dimitrios without verifying his age.
This case joins a growing trend of lawsuits seeking financial accountability from parents of individuals involved in mass shootings. As the trial continues, the community awaits the jury’s decision on whether the parents will be held responsible for the tragic events at Santa Fe High School.
Source
Photo credit www.nbcdfw.com