Jonathan C. Ayarza has filed a gripping lawsuit against Family Dollar Stores, Inc., alleging a harrowing incident of violence that occurred in broad daylight. On April 3, 2025, Ayarza lodged his complaint in the District Court of Harris County, Texas, detailing accusations against Family Dollar Stores, Inc. The plaintiff recounts a traumatic experience on February 18, 2025, when he was shot by an employee of Family Dollar while allegedly attempting to shoplift from their Houston location.
The case unfolds with Ayarza claiming that after exiting the store with a box of Nutrigrain bars, he was assaulted and subsequently shot by a store employee. This shocking event is part of what Ayarza describes as a broader policy within Family Dollar that encourages employees to take extreme measures against suspected shoplifters. According to the petition, "Family Dollar refuses to invest in qualified security guards and staff," instead promoting policies that lead untrained employees to engage in violent confrontations with customers. Ayarza's legal team argues that this corporate culture has resulted in multiple incidents across various states where individuals have been harmed or killed under similar circumstances.
Ayarza's lawsuit outlines several causes of action against Family Dollar, including common-law negligence for failing to ensure customer safety and premises liability for not maintaining a safe environment at their stores. He also accuses the company of gross negligence for fostering an environment where employees are tacitly encouraged to carry firearms and use deadly force. Furthermore, the complaint includes claims of false imprisonment and civil assault & battery due to the physical restraint and harm inflicted upon him without legal justification.
In terms of relief sought, Ayarza demands substantial compensation for damages incurred due to medical expenses, mental anguish, physical pain and suffering, disfigurement, and loss of enjoyment of life. He seeks actual damages exceeding $18 million and exemplary damages amounting to at least $106 million. The lawsuit aims not only to compensate Ayarza but also to serve as a punitive measure against Family Dollar for its alleged reckless practices.
Representing Jonathan C. Ayarza are attorneys R. Clive Markland and Nathan Mays from Roberts Markland LLP based in Houston, Texas. The case is filed under Case ID 2025-22871 in the 113th Judicial District Court of Harris County.