The family of a young Auburn University graduate who was allegedly shot and killed by her boyfriend’s father has now filed a wrongful death lawsuit in Alabama. The civil complaint comes shortly after police charged the man with manslaughter in connection with the fatal shooting that happened inside his home earlier this year.
The tragic case has drawn widespread attention because of the victim’s young age, the unusual circumstances surrounding the shooting, and the legal battle now developing in both criminal and civil court.
Overview of the Case
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Victim | Whitney Harlow Robeson |
| Age | 22 |
| Accused | Jeffrey Scott Towers |
| Age | 54 |
| Location | Trussville, Alabama |
| Criminal Charge | Manslaughter |
| Civil Action | Wrongful death lawsuit |
| Incident Date | March 7 |
| Victim’s Background | Auburn University graduate |
Fatal Shooting Happened Inside Alabama Home
According to court documents and police reports, the shooting happened on March 7 inside Jeffrey Scott Towers’ home in Trussville, Alabama.
Authorities said Towers was in the attic with his son, Brandon Towers, and Whitney Robeson while showing them a collection of antique firearms.
The lawsuit claims that during the handling of a .22-calibre revolver, the weapon discharged and a bullet struck Robeson in the chest.
Emergency responders treated the 22-year-old woman at the scene before she was transported to a nearby hospital, where she later died from her injuries.
Coroner Ruled Death a Homicide
Jefferson County Chief Deputy Coroner Bill Yates later confirmed the official cause of death.
According to reports, Robeson died from injuries to:
- Her left lung
- Her heart
- Her aorta
The injuries were caused by a gunshot wound to the chest.
Officials also classified the manner of death as a homicide.
In legal terms, a homicide classification does not automatically mean murder. It simply means the death resulted from the actions of another person.
Family Claims Gun Was Handled Negligently
The wrongful death lawsuit filed by Robeson’s family argues that Jeffrey Scott Towers failed to safely handle the firearm.
According to the complaint, the family alleges Towers:
- Failed to properly check whether the gun was loaded
- Handled the firearm carelessly around others
- Pointed the gun in an unsafe direction
The lawsuit states that Towers had a legal duty to act responsibly while operating or displaying firearms.
Robeson’s family is seeking financial damages, although the exact amount has not yet been specified. A jury would determine any compensation if the case proceeds to trial.
Attorney Says Death Was ‘Unnecessary’
The family’s attorney, Andrew Moak, described the incident as a tragic and preventable loss.
According to reports, Moak stated that Robeson was a young woman with her entire future ahead of her and said her life was cut short far too soon.
The attorney also stressed that beyond the legal case, the family wants people to remember Whitney as a daughter, loved one, and valued member of her community.
Criminal Manslaughter Case Also Ongoing
The civil lawsuit comes shortly after police arrested Jeffrey Scott Towers on a manslaughter charge.
Authorities obtained an arrest warrant earlier this month, and Towers was taken into custody on May 11.
Court records show he was later released after posting a $30,000 bond.
Police have stated that the criminal investigation into the shooting remains ongoing as investigators continue reviewing evidence and witness statements.
Defense Lawyers Say Client Is Innocent
Attorneys representing Jeffrey Scott Towers have previously stated that their client is not guilty of the criminal charges.
In earlier comments, the defence described the shooting as a tragic event and emphasised that Towers has:
- No criminal history
- A long record as a productive citizen
- Strong community standing
His lawyers stated they believe the facts of the case will ultimately support his innocence.
It is currently unclear who will represent Towers in the wrongful death lawsuit.
Young Graduate Remembered by Family and Friends
Whitney Robeson was originally from Richmond, Virginia, and had recently graduated from Auburn University in May 2025.
According to her obituary, she had been preparing to begin a promising career in interior design.
Friends and loved ones described her as someone with a warm and positive personality who deeply impacted the people around her.
Her obituary stated that anyone who knew Whitney had been “touched and transformed” by her presence.
Case Highlights Firearm Safety Concerns
This case has once again raised concerns about firearm safety, especially when guns are handled casually inside homes or shown to guests.
Legal experts often stress that firearm owners have a responsibility to:
- Confirm whether weapons are loaded
- Keep guns pointed in safe directions
- Avoid careless handling around others
When accidental shootings lead to death, families sometimes pursue both criminal and civil legal action at the same time, as seen in this Alabama case.
