A homeless man is seeking $10 million in damages from a Portland, Oregon, business owner, alleging emotional distress, battery, assault, and negligence after being shot during a break-in. Kenneth Voyles filed a lawsuit in May against Touchstone Granite & Marble Inc. and its owner, James Grant.
Voyles admits in court filings that he entered the closed business on the morning of March 6, 2023, with the intention of stealing a drill bag. The lawsuit states that Grant arrived at the shop during the incident, and Voyles claims he apologized and attempted to flee. However, Grant asserts that Voyles became aggressive and moved toward him with bolt cutters, prompting Grant to fire his weapon.
"I only shot him when he was standing looking at me ready to come at me and then I just let him go because I just wanted it to be over," Grant told KPTV following the incident. Voyles is seeking $5 million in compensation and an additional $5 million in punitive damages.
The lawsuit also alleges that Touchstone Granite & Marble Inc. is vicariously liable for the shooting, citing a failure to implement adequate security protocols and train staff on handling after-hours intruders. Voyles' suit details life-altering injuries, including a collapsed lung, severe chest wounds, and multiple fractures in his right arm requiring extensive medical intervention.
The case has drawn public attention online, with some commentators labeling the lawsuit as frivolous. Voyles' claims stem from an event where he acknowledged his own trespassing and intent to steal property.