There has been a rash of violent crimes in and around Camp Creek Marketplace, an East Point shopping plaza near I-285.

On January 20, a 41-year-old woman was sitting in her car outside of Lowe's, a home improvement store, when a teenager approached her with a gun. During the carjacking, he beat and pistol-whipped her, causing her to suffer a traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Another woman's car was stolen on April 16 while she was pumping gas at the BJ's Wholesale Club gas station (which is near Lowe's).

Shoppers are fed up and want better security.

The Camp Creek Marketplace is located along Camp Creek Parkway and just outside I-285 on the east side of Atlanta.

According to Channel 2, the area experiences a crime rate 10 times higher than the national average at similar locations. Other recent crimes include auto-theft, burglary, and aggravated assault.

Shopping Security Tips

Business owners have a duty to provide security to the best of their ability for people moving about on their properties. Those who cut corners or don't take security seriously enough endanger their customers and leave people vulnerable to injuries or worse.

Premises liability resulting from negligence can happen anywhere in Georgia, which is why it's vital to be aware of your surroundings and take personal precautions.

Here are several ways to protect yourself when you are out and about running errands:

• If possible, have someone or a group with you. Attackers are more likely to target someone who is alone.
• Keep your car doors locked at all times, whether it's in a parking lot or you've just stepped out to get gas. Car thieves prefer easy targets.
• If you have valuables and need to leave them in your car, such as new clothes or a laptop, hide them from sight.
• Park in well-lit areas and places with high foot traffic.
• If you see someone being threatened or suspicious activity, call 911.

If you or a loved one sustained a serious personal injury, give us a call at 770-934-8000. Our phone lines are always open to help answer your legal questions.