North Charleston Business Faces Lawsuit After Customer Attacked With Machete in Parking Lot

The Incident

On November 15, 2025, a shocking and violent attack occurred in the parking lot of a North Charleston business. A customer was assaulted with a machete by an unknown assailant while leaving the premises. The victim sustained severe injuries and was rushed to the hospital for emergency medical treatment.

This incident has led to a lawsuit against the business, alleging negligent security. The claim asserts that the property owner failed to provide adequate measures to ensure the safety of patrons, such as proper lighting, security personnel, or surveillance systems, despite the area’s history of criminal activity.

What South Carolina Law Says

Under South Carolina premises liability law, property owners owe a duty of care to individuals lawfully on their property. Specifically, SC Code § 15-78-60 outlines the responsibilities of property owners to provide reasonably safe conditions and to protect patrons from foreseeable harm.

In cases of negligent security, the law considers whether the property owner knew or should have known about potential dangers and whether reasonable steps were taken to mitigate those risks. For example, if the business was aware of prior criminal activity in the area but failed to implement security measures, they may be held liable for injuries sustained on their property.

Your Rights and Options

If you or a loved one has been injured due to negligent security, you have the right to seek compensation for your damages. This can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. Filing a premises liability claim is often the first step toward holding the property owner accountable.

It’s important to document the circumstances of the incident thoroughly. This includes obtaining police reports, medical records, and witness statements. Additionally, photographs of the scene, such as poor lighting or lack of security cameras, can strengthen your case.

Consulting with an experienced attorney is crucial. A lawyer can evaluate your claim, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation.

What I Look For When Evaluating These Cases

When assessing negligent security cases, I focus on several key factors. First, I examine whether the property owner had knowledge of prior incidents or risks and failed to act. Second, I look for evidence of inadequate security measures, such as broken lighting, lack of surveillance cameras, or absence of security personnel.

A strong case often includes clear documentation of the property’s shortcomings and a direct link between those failures and the harm suffered by the victim.

How Insurance Companies Will Fight Back

Insurance companies often attempt to minimize liability in negligent security cases. They may argue that the attack was unforeseeable or that the victim’s actions contributed to the incident. Additionally, they might dispute the extent of the injuries or the damages claimed.

Having an experienced attorney on your side can counter these tactics and ensure your rights are protected throughout the legal process.

Related Practice Areas at Traywick Law Offices

At Traywick Law Offices, we handle cases involving premises liability, including negligent security. We also represent clients in personal injury and consumer protection matters.

My Final Thoughts

As a Charleston attorney, I’ve seen firsthand how negligent security can devastate lives. Property owners have a duty to protect their patrons, and when they fail, the consequences can be severe. If you’ve been injured due to a business’s negligence, I encourage you to explore your legal options and hold them accountable. Justice matters, and I’m here to help.