New Jersey Court Denies Workers’ Comp Claim for Amazon Driver Injured in Workplace Shooting

In a notable New Jersey case, a workers’ compensation judge ruled that an Amazon driver injured in a workplace shooting was not eligible for benefits, determining that the injury did not arise out of employment. The incident occurred when the driver, who arrived at work early, was approached by a masked man in an Amazon vest who shot him without any attempt to rob or harm other employees. Prior to the shooting, the driver had a monetary dispute with a former coworker, suggesting a personal motive for the attack.

The court emphasized the need for a causal connection between employment and injury for a claim to be compensable. Since the attack was personal and the shooter specifically targeted the driver, the court found no employment-related cause. The ruling noted that the assault was just as likely to have occurred outside the workplace.

In the case of Avery v. Next Mile, L.L.C., the court upheld the decision to deny the claim, stating that the presence of other employees and the lack of theft-related motives further disconnected the incident from the driver’s employment. This decision underscores the challenge of proving that workplace violence is related to employment, particularly when personal disputes are involved.