After weeks of trial and testimony, an Oregon jury awarded $21.25 million to the family of Freddy Nelson Jr., who was fatally shot by an unlicensed private security guard in 2021. Our team of attorneys who represented the Nelson family — Amy Bruning, Tom D’Amore, and Ben Turner — successfully argued that property manager TMT Development and Cornerstone Security Group were responsible for creating an environment that led to this tragedy.
The case stemmed from a May 29, 2021, incident at Portland’s Delta Park shopping center, where Nelson was collecting wooden pallets with permission from Lowe’s. Cornerstone guard Logan Gimbel, who lacked proper firearms licensing, confronted and ultimately shot Nelson in his vehicle.
The jury awarded $20 million in compensatory damages and $1.25 million in punitive damages against Cornerstone and its representatives. TMT Development was found 80% liable for negligent conduct, while the jury deemed Cornerstone and Gimbel’s actions reckless.
“The jury’s verdict holds TMT Development and Cornerstone Security accountable for fostering a culture of violence that directly led to the tragic and needless shooting of Freddy Nelson Jr. This decision makes clear that the defendants’ confrontational policies and reckless practices will not be tolerated in our community,” said Tom D’Amore. ” While nothing can erase the pain of Freddy’s death, we are proud to have achieved a measure of justice for the Nelson family.”
D’Amore Law Group is committed to holding wrongdoers accountable on behalf of our clients. If you believe you may have a wrongful death case, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact D’Amore Law Group today for a free consultation and let us fight for the justice your family deserves.
