The family of a man who was shot and killed earlier this month has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the woman charged in his death.
Evan and Colt Barron filed the civil suit against Suzanne Mericle for the death of their father James David Barron. The suit was filed Wednesday in the Superior Court of Hall County, according to a release from Attorneys Matt Cathey & David Dickerson of Cathey & Strain, LLC.
Mericle is accused of shooting Barron with a handgun on March 8 in the home they both shared. The two were reportedly in a relationship at the time of the incident. While the criminal investigation into the case is ongoing, Mericle was charged with felony murder, assault under the Family Violence Act and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime. As of last report, she was being held in the Hall County Jail without bond.
“This family has suffered an unspeakable tragedy, and this civil suit has been initiated to protect the family and their legal rights,” a statement from the law firm said. “The Barrons kindly request that their privacy be respected during this difficult time. Our firm generally does not comment on pending litigation, and this is particularly true in a case like this where an investigation is still ongoing. Therefore, we will have no further comment at this time.”
The firm said the Barrons are seeking all civil remedies available, including damages for the “full value of the life of their father.”
