[9/2/04]A lawsuit names owners and managers of a Vicksburg lounge where a fatal duel occurred in August as financially liable to the mother of the man who died.

The suit alleges that security was inadequate at the Hill Top Lounge, 1515 Washington St., in the early morning of Aug. 2, when what police called a shootout occurred at 12:57 a.m.

Danny Woodland, who was 32, was killed, and the suit was filed Tuesday in Warren County Circuit Court on behalf of his estate by Katherine Woodland, represented by attorney Ramel Cotton.

The suit names Reginald Rogers, 27, 2404 Railroad Alley and in jail, charged with murder as one defendant.

It also names Elias Rantisi, identified as the owner of the building; Jerry D. Evans and Rictor Evans, identified as its operators; and Michael Tyler, identified as the promoter of the event at which the shooting happened, as jointly responsible.

Rogers was charged after being released from a hospital, where he was taken with gunshot wounds. Five bystanders were also treated after being hit by bullets or fragments.

The lawsuit asks for actual and punitive damages without specifying a dollar amount.

The City of Vicksburg, in a separate action, has asked the Warren County Chancery Court for temporary and permanent injunctions to close the establishment that has not reopened since the shooting.

Associate City Attorney Bobby Robinson said a decision would not come before Rantisi, Jerry Evans, Rictor Evans and Tyler each has had 30 days to respond.

Rantisi filed a response on Aug. 13, saying he was “simply the landlord” of the premises and denying any knowledge of any illegal activities happening there.

Chancellor Vicki Roach Barnes will rule on the city’s case.