Real Estate Photographer Taking Legal Action After Being Shot by Homeowner

Real Estate Photographer Taking Legal Action After Being Shot by Homeowner

An Atlanta-based photographer is taking legal action after being shot upon entering the home he was assigned to photograph. The homeowner blames a "miscommunication."

Whitney Morris is now suing Real Estate Expert Advisors in Buford, as well as one of its employees specifically, after claiming they failed to inform a homeowner that he was scheduled to arrive in order to photograph the property. Also named in the lawsuit is the property owner, with Morris citing that she failed to “act as a reasonable person would under the circumstances.”

It is reported that Morris was initially booked to photograph Belinda Brooks’ home on February 1st, but after becoming unavailable, it was rescheduled for the following day. The problem arose when the new date was allegedly not relayed to homeowner Brooks. As per the instructions, Morris used the lock box outside the house to acquire the key and gain access.

With the property’s alarm system sounding upon his entry – and Morris unable to find the security code to de-activate it – he stepped inside. As court documents reveal:

Unbeknownst to (Morris), Brooks was inside the house in a back bedroom with the bedroom door closed,” the document said. “Brooks retrieved her .38 caliber Ruger pistol (and) fired her gun through the back bedroom door and wall and struck (Morris).

It was only upon hearing his cries that Brooks opened the door, to be told by Morris that he was the photographer. Brooks claims she was still awaiting a phone call to book in the rescheduled appointment.

Morris’ lawsuit includes filings for personal injuries, lost earnings, and expenses, accusing the defendants of negligence. With Morris out of work for several months, a GoFundMe page has been set up to help with expenses.

Jack Alexander's picture

A 28-year-old self-taught photographer, Jack Alexander specialises in intimate portraits with musicians, actors, and models.

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