Alabama prosecutors are investigating an accidental shooting that resulted in the death of Whitney Robeson, a 22-year-old Auburn University graduate, in March. Robeson was allegedly shot by Jeffrey Towers, her boyfriend's father, while handling an antique .22-caliber revolver. Towers has been charged with manslaughter, and Robeson's family has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against him and 15 unnamed entities, including the gunmaker.
Paul Calli, a trial attorney, noted that the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act of 2005 could complicate the lawsuit against the firearm manufacturer, as it protects manufacturers from certain lawsuits unless there is evidence of defective products. Calli expressed skepticism about proving defects in an antique firearm.
The lawsuit claims that Towers acted negligently and that the gunmaker produced a revolver with design flaws. Robeson's parents are invoking the Alabama Extended Manufacturer’s Liability Doctrine, alleging that the firearm was defectively designed and lacked adequate safety features to prevent accidental discharge.
The family is seeking justice but has not specified the monetary damages sought. Calli remarked that it is unusual for a civil suit to emerge before the criminal case has concluded, and the gunmaker's identity remains undisclosed. Towers has not entered a plea and is scheduled to appear in court on July 22, 2026.