In a dramatic legal turn of events, a Texas resident has filed a lawsuit against multiple parties following a harrowing incident at a shooting range. The complaint was lodged by Joel Schweizer in the District Court of Harris County, Texas, on April 16, 2025, targeting John Doe, Topco America LLC, and Topco Operations Holding I LLC, collectively operating as Range USA Westheimer.
The case stems from an alarming event that occurred on September 21, 2024. According to the plaintiff's petition, Schweizer was lawfully positioned within his designated shooting lane at Range USA Westheimer when he became the victim of a ricocheted bullet fragment. The incident unfolded as another individual, identified only as John Doe in the filing, allegedly violated safety protocols by using a long-range firearm in an area meant for short-range shooting. This breach of guidelines resulted in a bullet fragment ricocheting off metal equipment and striking Schweizer in the face. "Due to the positioning of the target paper holder and the unexpected nature of the ricochet," Schweizer claims he had no opportunity to shield himself from harm.
Schweizer's lawsuit accuses the defendants of negligence on several fronts. The complaint asserts that they failed to provide a safe environment for patrons and neglected their duty to exercise reasonable care. Specific allegations include creating hazardous conditions without adequate warnings or interventions and failing to adhere to established safety protocols. The plaintiff argues that these oversights directly contributed to his severe injuries.
Seeking justice and compensation for his ordeal, Schweizer is pursuing damages exceeding $1 million. His claims encompass medical expenses—both past and future—alongside compensation for pain and suffering, mental anguish, disfigurement, loss of earnings capacity, and other related damages. Additionally, he requests pre-judgment interest from the date of injury until judgment is rendered.
Representing Joel Schweizer are attorneys Pablo Franco (Texas Bar No. 24121625), Nefi K. Lopez (Texas Bar No. 24106219), and Russell Morris (Texas Bar No. 24099150) from Lopez Franco PLLC based in Houston. The case is being presided over by Judge Christopher Matthews under Case ID: 2025-26713.