Mother wins $100M verdict against ghost gun seller after son used one for suicide
By Alexis Mathews
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LOUISVILLE, Kentucky (WLKY) — A Louisville mother has secured a historic victory in a civil case against an online ghost gun seller.
On Wednesday, a jury awarded the family of Henry Willis $104 million.
The 18-year-old was in a mental crisis when he ordered a ghost gun kit, or untraceable firearm, and died by suicide three years ago. Willis was a Seneca High School graduate.
His mother sued the unlicensed Nebraska-based retailer, Husky Armory LLC, and its parent company for negligence. Attorneys argued that the 18-year-old’s age was not verified during the transaction. They also argued a background check was not required when he purchased the ghost gun kit.
The unlicensed gun retailers did not appear in court during the civil case.
His mother hopes the verdict sends a clear message to those in the gun industry who put profit over people.
Laura Herp, mother of Henry Willis, said, “No amount of money can bring my son back, and nothing will ever make this right. I filed this lawsuit because gun sellers need to be held accountable. And I’m so grateful to this jury for doing their part to make that a reality. I know that far too many families already share my pain. To me, this was always about making sure no one else experiences a tragedy like ours.”
She also hopes this landmark case raises awareness about suicide prevention.
The verdict is believed to be the largest awarded in U.S. history against a seller of firearms.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential support 24/7.
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