11/4/09
Dover, Delaware
From the October 29, 2009 Wilmington (Del.) News-Journal:
One of the teenage sons of a Dover woman being assaulted by her ex-husband grabbed a shotgun and fired into the air to get his father to stop the attack, Dover police said.
The victim's estranged husband, Jeremy S. Stanislow, 32, of the 1100 block of Smyrna Clayton Blvd. in Smyrna, was charged with three counts of assault, four counts of endangering the welfare of a child and disorderly conduct.He was later released on $3,000 bail.
Dover police Lt. Steve Getek said officers Tuesday night were sent to the first block of Forest Creek Drive about 7 p.m. to investigate a domestic incident.
The victim told officers that she and her estranged husband argued over custody issues because he wanted to take their youngest child with him for the evening.
The argument turned physical and Stanislow shoved the victim off the steps and started assaulting her, Getek said.
When the woman's 16-year-old son saw his father attacking his mother he picked up a board and hit Stanislow in the back, according to court records.
Then, when the woman tried to stop Stanislow from beating up on his son, he turned and began punching her until she blacked out, police said in court records.
At this point, the woman's 14-year-old son came out of the house holding a shotgun, pointed it in the air and fired in an effort to get his father to stop attacking his mother, police said.
Stanislow then ran.
Labels: DE, domestic dispute, minor defender
10/14/09
Harkers Island, South Carolina
From the October 9, 2009 South Carolina News-Times:
BEAUFORT — No charges will be filed against the Harkers Island man who fatally shot his son in his home recently.
The County Sheriff’s Department said Thursday that District Attorney Scott Thomas would not file charges against Cleveland Hackworth, 67, who shot and killed his son, Blake Hackworth, 45, in an incident at the family residence on Harkers Island on Sept. 27.
Mr. Thomas was unable to be reached for comment by presstime.
According to Capt. Jason Wank, based upon the facts and the law, Mr. Thomas reviewed the sheriff’s department’s case and concluded the incident was a justifiable homicide and that no criminal charges will be filed against Cleveland Hackworth.
The incident occurred following a day of aggressive behavior by the son that included attempted assault on his mother and his threatening to kill her.
“Family members said Mr. Hackworth had been exhibiting combative behavior for most of the day when the shooting took place,” Chief Deputy Ken Raper said at the time of the incident.
Police reports stated Blake Hackworth died Sept. 27 from the head wound he sustained after his father shot him as the junior Hackworth attempted to attack both his father and his mother, Peggy Hackworth.
Labels: altercation, domestic dispute, SC
10/3/09
Halifax, North Carolina
From WRAL of October 2, 2009
Sheriff: Revenge likely motive for fatal home invasion
A New Jersey man who was shot and killed during a home invasion in Halifax Friday morning was likely seeking revenge for a two decade-old domestic dispute, according to Halifax County Sheriff Jeff Frazier.
The investigation is ongoing into details of the 1988 dispute between Marcel Alston, of Halifax, and Carlton L. Burgess, 61, of Lumberton, N.J. Frazier said.
"It's baffling right now. We've got a lot of loose ends that we've got to try to tie up," said Lt. Bobby Martin, with the Halifax County Sheriff's Office.
Investigators said that a knock woke up Alston around 7 a.m. at his house at 5524 U.S. Highway 301, where he lives alone. When Alston opened the door, Burgess, who had a gun, began assaulting Alston.
Alston got away and was climbing up the stairs when Burgess fired, striking his victim in the buttocks, investigators said. Alston managed to get to his bedroom and got out a gun he kept there.
Burgess followed Alston into the bedroom, and Alston fatally shot him in the upper torso, according to investigators.
According to a 911 call, Alston went to a neighbor's for help after the shootings.
In addition to a gunshot wound, Alston suffered a gash on the head. He was undergoing surgery at Halifax Regional Hospital Friday afternoon. His condition was stable, Frazier said.
Alston acknowledged his acquaintance with Burgess and said they hadn't seen each other in several years.
Deputies were examining a white van with New Jersey license plate parked in front of Alston's house that Burgess might have driven. Investigators were also searching a room at the Days Inn in Weldon where Burgess had checked in Wednesday.
Frazier said the killing appeared to be a case of self-defense. The Halifax County District Attorney's Office has to decide whether charges will be filed.
Neighbors said they were stunned this happened to Alston, who has been their friend for years.
"It shocked me," neighbor Leroy Lynch said. "I'm really sad. He's a real nice man."
Labels: defender shot, domestic dispute, NC
8/23/09
Houston, Texas
From the August 22, 2009 Houston Chronicle:
A man accused of kicking in the door of his ex-girlfriend's Spring home was recovering from a gunshot wound on Saturday.
Johnnie W. Cunningham III, 31, faces a burglary charge after police say he forced his way into a home in the 7000 block of Treaschwig late Friday night.
While the ex-girlfriend and another man slept, Cunningham began beating and kicking their back door around 10 p.m., said Thomas Gilliland, a Harris County Sheriff's Office spokesman.
Through the closed door, the ex-girlfriend told Cunningham to leave.
“He became belligerent, kicked the door open and gained entry to the house,” Gilliland said.
When Cunningham began struggling with the woman, the other man came out of a bedroom with a handgun. He ordered Cunningham to leave several times, but Cunningham continued to shove his former girlfriend, police say.
“At this time, the male occupant fired a warning shot into the ceiling,” Gilliland said. “The suspect again was belligerent and started towards the male complainant. The male complainant fired one time, striking the suspect in the upper chest.”
The shooter called 911 to report injuring an intruder.
Cunningham was transported to Ben Taub General Hospital in critical condition.
The shooter has not been charged, Gilliland said.
Labels: domestic dispute, home invasion, TX
7/29/09
Atlanta, Georgia
From July 28, 2009 channel 11:
ATLANTA (AP) -- Police say a man who shot and killed his girlfriend's ex-boyfriend was acting in self defense.
The shooting happened just after 3 p.m. Monday at an apartment in the 2,000 block of Lenox Road.
Atlanta police Maj. Renee Propes said the shooting victim waited outside his ex-girlfriend's apartment until her new boyfriend came home. Propes said the man attacked the new boyfriend and the fight continued into the apartment, where the new boyfriend shot and killed the ex-boyfriend.
Propes said charges aren't likely to be filed.
Labels: domestic dispute, GA, home invasion
7/15/09
New Haven, West Virginia
From the Charleston Daily Mail of July 12, 2009
Mason County man fatally shoots his son
State Police say a Mason County man is claiming self defense after fatally shooting his son during a dispute in his New Haven home.
Troopers said Lyman Greenlee fired a single shot at his son Charles Scott Greenlee, 35, of Point Pleasant. The incident happened about 10 p.m. Friday, said Trooper A.D. Wooton, the investigating officer.
Charles Greenlee died of his injuries.
Charles Greenlee had gone to the Seventh Street home of his father and stepmother earlier Friday evening and the three of them got into an argument, troopers said.
State Police spokesman Michael Baylous said Charles Greenlee assaulted his father and then began assaulting his stepmother, whose name has not been released. At that time, Lyman Greenlee retrieved a small- to medium-sized handgun and ordered his son to stop, Baylous said.
Troopers said Lyman Greenlee then fired one shot, which struck his son.
State Police said alcohol might have been a factor in the incident.
Troopers said Lyman Greenlee was questioned Friday night and that the man has cooperated fully with the investigation. He told officers he shot his son in self-defense, Baylous said.
Lyman Greenlee was not arrested, nor has he been charged, police said.
Baylous said the case will be handed over to the Mason County prosecutor's office and taken to a grand jury, which will decide if the evidence merits an indictment.
State Police still are investigating.
Labels: assault, domestic dispute, WV
6/25/09
Prince George's County, Maryland
From the Washington Post of June 25, 2009
Woman Kills Husband in Apparent Self-Defense
A Prince George's County woman fatally shot her husband in an apparent act of self-defense Saturday after he attacked her at the Capitol Heights duplex where the pair lived in separate units, according to police and neighbors.
Just after 8 a.m., authorities said, police were called to the home in the 700 block of Capitol Heights Boulevard on a report of a domestic dispute. In front of the house, they found Richard Marcellous Wilson, 30, with a gunshot wound. He was taken to a hospital, where he died.
Police said Wilson's wife fired the fatal shot.
The circumstances of the incident are unclear, but police think that the shooting "appears to have been in self-defense," said Cpl. Mike Rodriguez, a spokesman for the Prince George's police department. Wilson, police said, had violated an active protective order when he attacked his wife.
Rodriguez declined to name the shooter because she is a victim in the case and has not been charged.
(More)
Labels: domestic dispute, female, MD
6/18/09
Wichita Falls, Texas
From the Times Record News of June 10, 2009
Police: Suspect treated for gunshot wound then jailed
A man was treated for a gunshot wound to his leg then taken to the Wichita County Jail on assault charges in connection with an incident Monday, said Officer Harold McClure, public information officer with the Wichita Falls Police Department.
Perrion Lavell Warrior, 46, was charged with three counts of aggravated assault family violence in connection with the incident. His bond was set at $60,000 and he was being held Tuesday in the Wichita County Jail.
According to reports:
Police were called to the 500 block of Marconi to check on reports of shots fired about 10 p.m.
Officers talked to a 44-year-old woman who said she was threatened by her live-in boyfriend. She said he was intoxicated and they were arguing in the bedroom.
Her 24-year-old daughter lives next door and came over when she heard the commotion. At about the same time, the victim’s 22-year-old son showed up.
The woman’s children arrived and found the suspect holding a knife to the woman’s throat.
Both children asked the suspect to put the knife down and tried to get him to leave. He threatened them, and said they would all be dead before he left.
The son left the room, came back with a handgun, and shot Warrior once in the left leg.
The suspect was taken to the emergency room in a private vehicle, where police took him into custody and then to jail. His injury was not considered life threatening.
The assault victim’s son does not face any charges for the incident because the shooting was considered self-defense.
Labels: assault, domestic dispute, intoxication, TX
6/10/09
Lookout Mountain, Georgia
From WTVC of June 9, 2009
Man Fires In Self-Defense, Kills Attacker
An act of self-defense leaves a Lookout Mountain, Georgia man dead and a family grieving.
Walker County Sheriff Steve Wilson said his deputies tried to stop an on-going, heated family dispute but it was just too late.
"Unfortunate for the victim, the victim's family and the person that had to do the shooting," Sheriff Wilson said.
Harry Lee Derryberry, known as Chuck, was just 45-years-old when his life ended in a field on his family's property in Rising Fawn on Lookout Mountain. He had been shot in the groin with a 12-gauge shotgun. His family called 911 earlier saying they needed help quickly with a domestic dispute that turned violent.
"Upon speaking with the deputy arriving on the scene, he told me he actually heard the gunshot when the gun was fired," Sheriff Wilson explained.
Sheriff Wilson said Brian Lee Walden fired the gun, acting in self-defense and is not being charged. He and several family members were assaulted by Derryberry - the result of an argument over one of his sons.
"It appears that a 62-year-old female victim sustained injuries along with maybe one or two other people, along with the shooter," Sheriff Wilson said.
The family told a story of Derryberry that included a life of alcoholism and depression. The family said Derryberry had threatened his own life and others during a fit of rage Monday evening. They and the sheriff said after Walden was struck in the face Walden got his shotgun and told Derryberry to stay away.
"Pretty well warned the victim, said stay away but he came at him in an aggressive manner," Sheriff Wilson said.
District Attorney Buzz Franklin reviewed the circumstances and evidence, along with the Georgia law and found that Walden's actions were justified.
Derryberry was a father of three children.
Labels: domestic dispute, GA
4/28/09
Midlothian, Texas
From the Star-Telegram of April 27, 2009
Midlothian man's fatally shot at Arlington house, police say
A 42-year-old Midlothian man was fatally shot in Friday night by his former father-in-law, Arlington police said.
Police said the shooting appeared to be in self-defense, and that they would turn over evidence to the Tarrant County District Attorney's Office for a determination. No one has been arrested.
Rodney Kennedy was at a home in the 1400 block of Pecan Street when he was shot by his former father-in-law, 67, police said. The shooting happened at 10 p.m. during an altercation, according to reports.
The house is near the University of Texas at Arlington.
Labels: domestic dispute, TX
4/22/09
Springfield, Oregon
From KTMR of April 22, 2009
Springfield police say fatal shooting was self-defense
Police say a fatal shooting in Springfield was an act of self-defense.
The shooting happened Monday night at a home on the 2300 block of E Street. Investigators say Rodolfo Baldenegro, 47, went to the home looking for his estranged girlfriend. Investigators say the woman had filed a restraining order against him.
Police say Baldenegro forced his way into the residence and got into a fight with the woman and another man. Police say the other man shot Baldenegro in self-defense. Baldenegro died at the hospital.
Labels: domestic dispute, female, OR
4/16/09
Winter Haven, Florida
From the News Chief of April 14, 2009
Wife shoots husband in self-defense, Winter Haven police say
A local woman's act of self-defense might have saved her life and the lives of four family members, the Winter Haven Police Department reported.
According to police, a Winter Haven man who threatened early Tuesday to shoot and kill members of his family instead was shot by his wife.
The man, 34-year-old Troy A. Christoff, was treated for multiple gunshot wounds at Lakeland Regional Medical Center, according to a police report. He was charged with five counts of attempted first-degree murder with a firearm and, after being released from the hospital under police custody, was booked without bond into the Polk County Jail in Bartow.
According to the report, Winter Haven police responded around 4 a.m. Tuesday to a reported shooting at 1121 Seventh St., S.W., the home of Troy and Dawn Christoff. When they arrived, police discovered that Troy Christoff had been shot multiple times with a 9mm handgun. The shooter was identified as his wife, 35-year-old Dawn Christoff.
Witness statements and an examination of physical evidence indicate that Troy Christoff intended to shoot several members of his family who lived with him, according to the police report. Prior to the shooting, he had armed himself with a handgun and begun to load the weapon, stating which member of his family each bullet was intended for.
When the handgun was loaded, Troy Christoff raised the weapon and pointed it at his wife, according to the report. The wife, who had armed herself with another handgun to protect herself and other family members, fired multiple shots at her husband, striking him several times.
Troy Christoff was airlifted to the Lakeland hospital to be treated for his gunshot wounds.
According to Polk County Jail records, Troy Christoff has been arrested on four previous occasions going back to July 2004. Past charges included battery, disorderly intoxication, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, possession of methamphetamine, possession of cannabis, driving under the influence and violation of parole.
Police considered the shooting to be an act of self-defense, but detectives are still investigating, according to the report. Anyone with information to add is asked to call Detective Steve Rusich at 863-291-5304.
Labels: domestic dispute, female, FL
4/4/09
Nashville, Tennessee
From NewsChannel5 of April 4, 2009
Police Say Dad Shot Son in Fight
Metro Police believe a father shot his 32-year old son, but he may not face charges. Investigators think the gunshots were the result of a fight.
Investigators said, late Saturday afternoon in North Nashville, a father and son were fighting when the shooting happened.
Police do not anticipate charges against the father because they say he was acting in self defense. The son is in critical, but stable condition.
Labels: domestic dispute, TN
4/1/09
Catskill, New York
From WCAX of April 1, 2009
Man jailed with a gunshot wound after harassing ex-wife
A 47-year-old man is in the Greene County jail with a gunshot wound after State Police say he showed up drunk at his estranged wife's home and harassed her and her sister.
Troopers got a call around 5:30 Monday evening from a 49-year-old woman who said she had just shot her sister's ex-husband.
Police say Geraldine Finelli armed herself with a 20-gauge shotgun after Donald Case Jr. showed up making threats. When Case refused to leave, she fired one round toward the ground, striking Case in the lower leg.
He took off, but was stopped by Catskill village police and taken to the hospital for treatment of the wound. When he was released, State Police charged him with second-degree burglary.
He was arraigned and jailed on $50,000 cash bail or $100,000 bond.
Labels: domestic dispute, female, NY
1/29/09
Oak Grove, Alabama
From the January 16, 2009 Birmingham News:
An Oak Grove man shot his son late Wednesday after authorities say the son attacked his mother with a broomstick and then stabbed his girlfriend.
Colter Roberts, 21, was in stable condition at UAB Hospital with two wounds from his father's 12-gauge shotgun, said Jefferson County sheriff's spokesman Lt. Randy Christian.
Deputies received a 911 hang-up call from a home on Camp Oliver Road just before 11:30 p.m. Wednesday.
The dispatcher tried to call the number but got no answer. While deputies were en route, someone called back, screaming that a father had to shoot his son who was attacking the family, Christian said.
Investigators say Colter Roberts had first attacked his 48-year-old mother with his fists and then beat her with the broomstick. He then went after his 30-year-old girlfriend with a knife.
Colter Roberts' 7-year-old sister was in the home, but not injured, Christian said.
Colter Roberts then ran from the kitchen into a hallway with a knife, screaming that he was going to kill everyone in the house. He also used the knife to slash the walls of the hallway and headed into the bedroom where his father was sleeping.
Van Roberts, 48, tried to talk to his son, but told police his efforts were unsuccessful. He described his son as "a madman running at him with a knife, screaming," Christian said.
Van Roberts grabbed his shotgun and warned his son, but the son failed to drop the knife. Van Roberts fired one shot, striking his son in the arm.
Colter Roberts continued with the attack, and his father fired another shot, striking him in the torso, Christian said. Colter Roberts has a history of drug abuse and violence, Christian said.
Labels: AL, domestic dispute
1/7/09
Pell City, Alabama
From the Cullman Times of January 5, 2009
Man shoots alleged attacker
A Pell City man is in the hospital with a gunshot wound after he allegedly broke into a Hanceville residence and attacked the owner Saturday.
According to Hanceville police reports, the gunshot victim was 32-year-old Charles Kendrick.
“He was shot once in the stomach with a 25-caliber automatic,” said Lt. Jimmy Rodgers of the Hanceville Police Department. “Further investigation has ruled it was a self-defense shooting.”
Rodgers said the shooting took place at approximately 7:20 p.m. at a residence on Commercial Street.
“The owner of the residence was at home when this guy (Kendrick) jumped on him and began to fight him,” Rodgers said. “The owner went inside and locked the door and retrieved a handgun.”
Rodgers said Kendrick allegedly then began smashing the back windows of the residence and tried to enter.
“The owner pointed the gun at him to prevent him from entering,” Rodgers said. “The gun was unloaded at this point.”
Undeterred, Kendrick allegedly continued to break the window and then entered the home, Rodgers said. The homeowner then went into his bedroom and locked the door.
“The perpetrator kicked in the door, at which point he was shot by the resident,” Rodgers said.
Paramedics treated Kendrick at the scene and then transported him to UAB Hospital.
An investigation revealed the attack was a type of domestic violence situation, Rodgers said.
“The homeowner’s girlfriend has kids by the perpetrator, and apparently he was upset about the kids and took it out on the boyfriend,” Rodgers said.
Rodgers noted Kendrick could face criminal charges once he is released from the hospital, including a charge of burglary.
Labels: AL, assault, domestic dispute
1/6/09
Milam County, Texas
From KXXV of December 29, 2008
Milam County home invasion
New details are emerging in the Milam County home invasion that left the resident's ex-husband dead.
Milam County Sheriff's deputies report that 34-year-old Eddie Sexton, III, was shot and killed when he apparently tried to force his way into his ex-wife's house.
Deputies also say Sexton was shot only once, and that his ex-wife called 911 and attempted to give first aid to her ex-husband.
Deputies say the gunman is 28-year-old Toby Broussard; it's not clear yet as to his relation is to Sexton's ex-wife.
No charges have been filed in the shooting.
Secton's body will be sent for an autopsy.
Milam County Sheriff's deputies responded to a home invasion call around 2:00 Sunday morning on Milam County Road 218 just outside of the Cameron city limits.
Labels: domestic dispute, female, TX
12/25/08
Conroe, Texas
From the Houston Chronicle of December 20, 2008
Domestic dispute ends in a deadly shooting
A woman's 80-year-old grandfather fatally shot her estranged husband after he tried to take their two children from the grandparents' house, Conroe police said Saturday.
Brice Wade Boudreaux, 32, died Friday evening at the home on Silver Creek Drive in Conroe, police said in a statement.
The investigation was ongoing Saturday, and it was not immediately clear whether the grandfather would face charges. He was questioned by police and released.
According to police, Boudreaux's estranged wife and children have been living with her grandparents for about five months.
When Boudreaux arrived Friday and tried to take the children, the grandfather intervened and ordered him to leave. Boudreaux refused, pushing the man out of the way, the statement said.
The grandfather then allegedly retrieved a revolver from another room and placed it in his back pocket before again advising Boudreaux, who was aware the older man had a gun, to leave, police said.
As the two left the home out to the driveway, Boudreaux again pushed the older man and allegedly struck him in the chest area where he recently had a pacemaker inserted, police said.
Fearing for his life, police said the older man then allegedly shot Boudreaux once, killing him.
Labels: domestic dispute, senior, TX
Federal Way, Washington
From the Federal Way Mirror of December 14, 2008
Federal Way man dies after wife shoots in self-defense
At about 3:55 a.m. Dec. 13, Federal Way police responded to a shooting at the Mariposa Apartment Complex, 28120 18 Ave. S, Federal Way.
A 24-year-old white female called 911 to report she had shot her 40-year-old white male husband. Both are residents of Federal Way.
Upon arrival police contacted both subjects inside the apartment. The unresponsive male was on the bedroom floor with multiple gunshot wounds. South King County Fire and Rescue responded along with paramedics from King County Medic One in an attempt to revive the male, but pronounced him dead at approximately 4:43 a.m. The King County Medical Examiner later responded and took control of the body.
Upon initial interview of the female, she stated she had been separated from her husband for several weeks and that they each had a protection order against the other. The female was later transported to St. Francis Hospital by ambulance for minor head injuries and related pain. After treatment, the female was transported to the Federal Way Police Department for interviewing and is cooperating with the investigation.
Preliminary investigation indicates the shooting was in self-defense. The scene was processed by the Federal Way Police Department with the assistance of the Washington State Patrol Crime Scene Team.
Federal Way police are currently following leads from witnesses and other involved parties in an attempt to further investigate this incident.
The department encourages anyone who has any information regarding this incident to call 911.
Labels: domestic dispute, female, WA
12/18/08
Franklin County, Arkansas
From the Fort Smith Times Record of December 16, 2008
Mother Shoots, Kills Son In Self-Defense, Police Say
A Franklin County man was killed by his mother Sunday, likely in self-defense, after he reportedly pistol-whipped her and his stepfather, authorities said.
Cameron Utsler, 22, was shot to death at the Prairie Street residence he shared with his mother and stepfather, north of Charleston, according to Lt. Steve Coppinger of the Arkansas State Police.
“Right now it looks like a justified shooting,” David Gibbons, Franklin County’s district attorney, said on Monday.
Troopers were dispatched to the residence at around 1:20 a.m. Sunday. Utsler was found dead at the scene, Coppinger said.
Utsler’s mother and stepfather, whose names were not revealed by either Coppinger or Gibbons, told investigators that Utsler became violent toward them after they had returned home from a Christmas party, according to Coppinger.
“He was upset that he was excluded from a family Christmas get-together,” Coppinger said.
Utsler reportedly brandished a handgun and at one point struck both his mother and stepfather on the head with the pistol, according to Coppinger. How many times Utsler struck them with the gun was not revealed.
“I don’t believe he discharged the weapon, he just physically beat them,” Coppinger said. “One of the parents, out of a defensive posture, had to get a firearm and shoot him.”
Coppinger described both the mother and stepfather as “very small in stature” and “slenderly built.” Utsler, however, was described as more than 6 feet tall and weighing more than 300 pounds.
“He’s a big guy with a violent history,” Coppinger said.
The mother and stepfather told investigators that Utsler had physically abused them in the past.
Because the shooting is believed to be self-defense, an arrest was not made.
“For this to occur right at the Christmas holiday must be very traumatic for the mother,” Coppinger said.
Both the mother and stepfather were treated and released from a local hospital, according to Coppinger
It is not known if Utsler had a history of mental instability, Coppinger said.
Gibbons said that until the State Police investigation is complete, he cannot officially clear the shooting as an act of self-defense.
Utsler’s body was transported to the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory in Little Rock, where an autopsy will be conducted.
Labels: AR, domestic dispute, female
12/8/08
Trumann, Arkanas
From WXVT of December 8, 2008
Ark. man forces way into wrong house, fatally shot
Police in northeast Arkansas say a Trumann man looking for his wife after an argument went to the wrong home and was shot to death by the homeowner when he tried to force his way inside.
Trumann police say Saturday's shooting death of 34-year-old Todd Short appears to be a justifiable homicide. Police Chief Larry Blagg says Short apparently got into an argument with his wife, and that she went to a family friend's home. According to police, Todd Short went to a nearby home - thinking that's where his wife was staying - and tried to force his way inside.
The homeowner, Jimmy Hand, then fatally shot Short with a shotgun. Police say the two homes were "cookie cutter" and that both had similar cars in the driveway.
The shooting remains under investigation, and no charges have been filed against Hand.
Labels: AR, domestic dispute
11/16/08
Stockton, California
From the Stockton Record of November 10, 2008
Man in critical condition after weekend domestic violence attack
A 60-year-old Stockton man remains in critical condition in an area hospital after he was shot several times early Sunday by a neighbor trying to intervene in a domestic violence attack.
Alcide Doucet, 60, shortly after 1:50 a.m. Sunday allegedly went to the Kelley Drive home of a 43-year-old woman and kicked in the door, according to a police report. Doucet allegedly hit the woman in the head with his fists and a handgun.
A 42-year-old neighbor heard screaming and other noise coming from the woman's house and went to help, according to the report. The neighbor, who police did not identify, apparently knew of the problems between the woman and Doucet, according to the report.
Once inside the woman's home, the neighbor saw Doucet holding the woman by her hair and raising his hand with the gun in it, according to the report. The neighbor told Doucet several times to stop. Doucet allegedly turned the gun on the neighbor and fired once, hitting the man.
The neighbor returned fire with his own gun, hitting Doucet several times in the upper body.
The woman and neighbor were treated for non-life threatening wounds and Doucet was taken to an area hospital and underwent surgery for his wounds.
Doucet likely will face at least felony domestic violence and assault with a deadly weapon once released from the hospital. The neighbor will not face charges since he was defending the woman, according to police.
Labels: CA, defender shot, domestic dispute
11/15/08
Tulsa, Oklahoma
From KTUL of November 12, 2008
Homeowner Halts Burglary With Shotgun Blast
A man sent suspects running after firing a shot from his 12-gauge shotgun to end an attempted burglary overnight.
It happened at about 10:40 p.m. Tuesday night near 45th and South Evanston. The victim told police his estranged wife and ex-girlfriend came to his home with two unknown men.
The victim says his wife broke through the front window and the two men kicked in the front door. The man retreated to his bedroom and got out his shotgun and fired one shot through the front room wall.
All of the suspects ran away from the scene. There were no injuries reported and no arrests have been made.
Labels: domestic dispute, home invasion, OK
10/9/08
Cecilia, Kentucky
From WLKY of September 30, 2008
Woman Shoots, Kills Ex-Boyfriend, Claims Self-Defense
A Hardin County woman shot and killed her ex-boyfriend Monday, but no charges have been filed because the shooter is claiming self-defense.
Kentucky State Police say there's still the possibility an arrest will come.
"She called and reported that this shooting had occurred and she was protecting herself, and we went down there," said Kentucky State Trooper Steve Pavey.
Pavey said it happened at a home where Angie Ricketts, the alleged shooter, lives with her husband and children.
Pavey said Ricketts called police right after she pulled the trigger, killing her ex-boyfriend, 37-year-old Eric West.
"He showed up unwanted yesterday and that he allegedly assaulted her and that's what led to all this," Pavey said.
West, of Magnolia, Ky., was pronounced dead at the scene. Detectives said Ricketts claims this isn't the first time her ex has caused problems.
"She is telling investigators that he is the father of a couple of her children and that he has made threats towards her and her family in the past," Pavey said.
Police said they are still trying to determine exactly what unfolded inside the home, and Ricketts' fate will likely be decided by a grand jury.
"We just want to do a thorough investigation from both sides and just present just the facts," Pavey said.
Pavey said Ricketts will remain out of jail for now, because she insists she exercised a right all Kentuckians have.
"You have the right as a property owner to protect yourself, and under the new law that was passed by the legislature about two years ago, it gives even a little more, with protecting yourself and family and property with deadly force," he said.
Pavey said it could take several months before the case is handed over to the commonwealth's attorney's office and then presented to a grand jury.
Labels: assault, domestic dispute, KY
10/7/08
Battle Creek, Michigan
From the Lansing State Journal of October 1, 2008
Police: Dad shot son dead during home invasion
A Battle Creek man who allegedly shot and killed his stepson Monday night has been released from custody as the police investigation continues.
Gary Prado, 49, was questioned and then released after Battle Creek police said he shot James L. Keck, 30, of Scotts.
Detectives said it appears Keck broke into the house at 51 S. Mason St. and was shot as he was attempting to force his way into a bedroom where Prado, Darlene Prado, 48 - his wife and Keck's mother - and Gary Prado's 11-year-old daughter had taken refuge.
An autopsy Tuesday showed Keck was shot four times, including once in the center of the chest, and he was pronounced dead at the scene. Police reported the shooting at 6:57 p.m.
**Update November 1, 2008**
From the Battle Creek Inquirer of October 31, 2008
'Man was shot in self-defense'
The Battle Creek man who shot his stepson in September killed him in self-defense, Calhoun County's prosecutor ruled.
In a letter Thursday to the Battle Creek Police Department, Prosecutor John Hallacy said charges won't be brought against Gary Prado, 49, in the shooting of James L. Keck.
"I am glad I am cleared of the charges because I didn't have any wrong doing," Prado said Thursday. "He said he was going to kill all of us and that is when I went into defense mode. I had to protect my family."
Battle Creek police said Keck was shot and killed inside Prado's Urbandale home just before 7 p.m. on Sept. 29.
The investigation showed Keck had threatened Prado and his wife (Keck's mother) and had broken into the house and was trying to force his way into the bedroom where Prado, his wife and his 11-year-old daughter had taken refuge.
"(Prado) and his wife requested that Mr. Keck not come to the residence," Hallacy wrote, "they locked the residence, they contacted 911, they retreated to a bedroom in the home, they closed the door to the bedroom and placed a dresser in front of the door, Mr. Prado warned Mr. Keck he was armed and finally Mr. Prado fired a warning shot before the fatal shots were discharged.
"Law provides protection to those who act to defend themselves and others who may be in danger," Hallacy concluded. "Based upon the facts and the law it is clear that Mr. Prado's actions were provided the protection of the law, in that he acted in self-defense when he shot and killed Mr. Keck."
Prado said Thursday he believes Keck had been drinking or smoking marijuana and was after him but Keck also had made threats against his mother.
"I heard the word kill and you go into protection mode to protect your family," Prado said.
"I couldn't take the chance," Prado said. "I took a vow to protect her and being her husband I took the vows very sacredly and unfortunately I could not let him get the chance to hurt her. Something snapped in him that night and I couldn't take the chance of him hurting my wife."
Prado said the shooting continues to haunt him.
"I loved my son, he had a lot of good points and a lot of bad points. I have nightmares and wake up in the middle of the night. I have a 24-7 reminder of what I did. I have a constant reminder of what has happened to me."
Labels: domestic dispute, MI
10/3/08
Jackson County, Alabama
From MyFoxGulfCoast of October 1, 2008
Man shot by his sister
Sheriff's deputies got a call around lunchtime Tuesday that Cathy Slade was begging for help, frightened by a man who was breaking into her home. That man was her brother.
"Upon arrival, they found Thomas Kirkwood laying in the entryway of the kitchen," said Captain Mick Sears with the Jackson County Sheriff's Office.
Kirkwood had been shot in the stomach. Captain Mick Sears with the Jackson County Sheriff's Office said the entire ordeal was caught on tape in a 911 call.
"According to Miss Slade, while she was on the phone with us, he broke out a window in the garage and made entry into the home," said Sears.
Sears says she warned her brother to stay away. When he refused, Slade shot him with a 38-caliber handgun. So, why was Slade afraid of her own brother? Sears says the two had a history of domestic problems. He says their mother just passed away, and Slade is executor of the will which is something that's been a source of contention.
"I think he wanted to circumvent the will and unfortunately made illegal entry into the home at the time and got shot for his effort," said Sears.
Kirkwood is recovering at Singing River Hospital. So far, Sears believes the shooting was self-defense. But he says the investigation is far from over. "Facts may come out later that it was her only recourse or facts may come out that something else could have been done," said Sears.
Those are charges a grand jury will have to decide.
Labels: AL, domestic dispute, female
9/28/08
Phoenix, Arizona
From the AZFamily of September 8, 2008
Man killed after armed woman with restraining order opens fire
A man is dead after trying to break into a woman's home and she opened fire on him.
According to police the woman had a restraining order against the man although their exact relationship is unclear.
Investigators say around 2:30 Sunday morning that man forced his way into the woman's house near 40th Avenue and Thunderbird and she was prepared
A police spokesperson tells 3TV, “The victim basically armed herself and when the suspect broke into the house the victim fired several rounds.”
Police said the woman will most likely not face any charges. The suspect's identity has not been released.
Labels: AZ, domestic dispute, female, home invasion
9/20/08
Dawsonville, Georgia
From the Dawson News and Advertiser of September 17, 2008
One dead in Big Canoe domestic dispute
A 44-year-old man died Tuesday morning from gunshot wounds related to a domestic dispute inside the gated Big Canoe community, Dawson County sheriff's spokesman Lt. Tony Wooten said.
The shooting on Columbine Road apparently involved a domestic dispute between business partners, Wooten said.-Mail N
The dead man, Howard Lynn Moreland, and his female business partner allegedly became embroiled in a heated discussion inside the female business partner's home after 9 a.m., Wooten said.
"The husband of the female business partner observed the male victim and his wife in a physical altercation," Wooten said. "At this time we're being told that (Moreland) pulled a knife and the husband of the female business partner had a firearm (rifle) and he shot and killed (Moreland)."
No charges have been filed at this time, Wooten said.
"We're still early in this investigation," he said.
Investigators have been told that Moreland, who has a Canton address listed on his driver's license, was living with a Big Canoe resident at the time of the shooting, Wooten said.
The names of the female business partner, and the name of her husband, who admittedly shot Moreland, have not been cleared for release as of yet, Wooten said.
"If there are no charges, there's no reason to release their names," Wooten said.
Dawson County originally received a 911 call just after 9:30 a.m. that someone had broken into the home in Big Canoe. While deputies were en route, they were notified that the intruder had been shot to death.
Wooten said authorities have been told that the shooting stemmed from a domestic dispute between Moreland and his female business partner. Apparently Moreland went to the home to confront his female business partner. Investigators have been told that the verbal exchange led to an alleged physical altercation with the woman's husband admittedly shooting Moreland and fatally wounding him after Moreland allegedly threatened physical violence his wife with a knife.
The couple has told investigators that the fatal shooting was in self-defense.
Labels: domestic dispute, GA
9/18/08
West Valley, Utah
From the Desert News of September 18, 2008
Intruder shot by homeowner in West Valley
An estranged husband who was shot after breaking into the home of his wife's male friend remained at University Hospital Thursday.
Robert Hunter, 50, was shot in the chest and arms with a 12-gauge shotgun after police say he broke into the home of Joe McIntosh Wednesday night. West Valley Police Capt. Tom McLachlan said Hunter's injuries were not believed to be life threatening.
The incident began just before 9 p.m. near 3700 South and 6000 West. Hunter allegedly parked his truck a street away and walked to McIntosh's home. Hunter, who had been separated from his wife for several months, had been served divorce papers earlier that day, McLachlan said.
His estranged wife was in the house with McIntosh. Hunter went to the back sliding glass door and allegedly entered the house after shattering the glass, McLachlan said.
There had been previous incidents between Hunter and McIntosh, including some threats, McLachlan said.
"Those threats may have made (McIntosh) quite leery," he said.
McIntosh fired a shotgun at Hunter almost as soon as he entered. Hunter was hit and retreated. Investigators later learned that Hunter was carrying 9 mm and .22-caliber handguns with him that were loaded. Police said whether Hunter pointed his weapons at anyone, whether he fired a shot or whether McIntosh even knew he was armed, were all questions being addressed in the ongoing investigation.
Labels: domestic dispute, home invasion, UT
9/9/08
Lee County, Tennessee
From the September 8, 2008 Kingsport [Tennessee] Times-News:
JONESVILLE — A Lee County man who was found guilty Friday of violating a protective order for the third time and sentenced to a year in jail was indicted on his fourth alleged violation by a grand jury on Monday.
Donald Robert Tomlinson, 29, Route 1, Box 171-D, was charged in June with the most recent violation after he allegedly waited at his estranged wife’s residence for her to return from an outing with other members of her family. Authorities have said once she arrived Tomlinson confronted his wife, and after seeing Tomlinson attack the woman, knock her to the ground and begin choking her, her brother shot him in the leg.
The brother was not charged, but Tomlinson was charged with violating the protective order as well as assault and battery of a family member. The grand jury returned true bills on both charges Monday.
Labels: domestic dispute, TN
8/20/08
Suffolk, Virginia
From the Daily Press of August 14, 2008
Two shot in argument in Suffolk
They used to live together as boyfriend and girlfriend.
But early Wednesday morning, it appears a Suffolk man tried to force his way into his ex-girlfriend's apartment. Both ended up shot. They remain hospitalized in serious condition, city spokeswoman Debbie George said.
Police responded at 4:28 a.m. when a young girl called to say a man broke into her home and her mother had been shot.
When they arrived at the Hardy Court apartment, they found Juanita Everett, 33, lying in the roadway and suffering from two gunshot wounds. Aubrey L. McQueen, the man police say forced into the residence, was found inside with one gunshot wound.
Four children, who range in age from 10 to 15, were found unharmed inside the residence.
McQueen, 30, was flown to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital with injuries that were initially described as life-threatening. Everett was taken by ambulance to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital.
Police believe McQueen is Everett's former boyfriend. He has not lived there since last month, when police took out warrants for him in connection with a staged 7-Eleven robbery. He's wanted for two counts of embezzlement and one count of forgery and uttering. Last month, police say a 7-Eleven employee staged her own robbery with the help of McQueen.
From the Daily Press of August 18, 2008
Intruder wounded in Suffolk shooting has died
A man who was shot during a Suffolk home invasion last week has died of his injuries.
Debbie George, spokeswoman for the city of Suffolk, said Aubrey L. McQueen, 30, died Saturday at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital.
McQueen was wounded early Wednesday morning after police say he broke into the home of his ex-girlfriend, Juanita Everett. Both adults were shot, but four children in the residence were unharmed
McQeen was also wanted for his suspected role in the robbery of a 7-Eleven, in which he and a store employee allegedly staged a robbery to embezzle the cash.
Labels: domestic dispute, female, home invasion, VA
7/7/08
Mesa, Arizona
From the East Valley Tribune of July 7, 2008
Man shot to death in Mesa driveway
Peggy Abel knew something "really bad" was happening Sunday night in her usually quiet Mesa neighborhood.
The mother of seven heard screams and someone saying "stop hitting me," so she sent her teenage son out to their backyard to investigate.
"He came back in and said, 'We gotta call 911!' " Abel said.
Then, she heard the gunshots.
"Pop, pop, pop," Abel said. "There was a man standing in the middle of the street and a lady screaming 'You blanking killed him.' "
Police arrived in the 3900 block of East Hampton Circle, near Val Vista Drive and U.S. 60, about 11 p.m., just as the shooting occurred. Officers found that the 29-year-old boyfriend of a neighborhood woman had been shot and killed by a 49-year-old homeowner who lives nearby.
The homeowner had come outside after hearing the man and his girlfriend yelling at each other in the front yard.
Although police have stopped short of using the term self-defense, they said the homeowner shot and killed the man because he was "going crazy" with a billiards stick and charged at the homeowner.
The man was found dead on the homeowner's driveway.
"As far as coming out with a gun, he was well within his rights," said Detective Chris Arvayo, Mesa police spokesman. "He was in his yard. He never left his property. He came out with a gun, which is his constitutional right."
Mesa police haven't released the name of the man who was killed, pending notification of his family. Police also wouldn't release the name of the shooter. No charges have been recommended against the shooter, Arvayo said, but the case will be forwarded to the Maricopa County Attorney's Office for review.
"He's not in custody right now," Arvayo said.
Police also said that they learned after the shooting that the man had been hitting things inside his girlfriend's house before he went outside and caused a disturbance.
Abel said she used the incident as an opportunity to talk with her children about anger management.
"That's very tragic," Abel said. "It's senseless."
Labels: assault, AZ, domestic dispute
7/3/08
Capron, Virginia
From the Tidewater News of July 1, 2008
Woman shoots ex-boyfriend in self-defense
An ongoing case of domestic violence turned bloody Monday morning, when a man was shot in the shoulder by his former girlfriend after he allegedly broke in to her Capron home, police said Tuesday.
Derrick Edward “Rick” Miller, 43, formerly of Brandy Pond Road in Capron, is recovering from a gunshot wound at a hospital in Greenville, N.C.
According to Detective Cpl. Richard Morris, spokesman for the Southampton County Sheriff’s Office, Miller’s ex-girlfriend shot him with a .357 Magnum when he allegedly tried to attack her after breaking through her front door early Monday morning.
He then left the scene and went to Como, N.C. From there, he was transported to an Ahoskie, N.C., hospital and then flown to the Greenville medical facility for further treatment.
The woman called police at 1:42 a.m. to report the alleged break-in and the shooting.
Police have charged Miller with breaking and entering in the nighttime and violation of a protective order in connection with Monday’s events, though warrants have not yet been served, Morris said.
Monday’s incident was the second in as many days involving the couple.
Morris said police had been called to the scene Saturday afternoon when the woman reported that she had been assaulted. Police issued, but have not yet served, two warrants in that incident — one for domestic assault and one for unauthorized use of a vehicle.
A “history of domestic abuse” had resulted in the court issuing a protective order against Miller prior to either of the recent events, Morris said.
No charges are pending against the woman, he added.
Labels: domestic dispute, female, VA
5/29/08
Spartanburg, South Carolina
From The State of May 24, 2008
No charges expected in fatal Spartanburg County shooting
Authorities say they don't plan to charge a man who shot another man who tried to hit his estranged wife with his truck.
The coroner's office told WSPA-TV that 36-year-old Kenneth Ross Jr. of Greer was shot several times early Saturday morning and died at the hospital.
Deputies say Ross confronted his estranged wife and a male friend at her Spartanburg home and tried to hit the woman with his truck, but struck her car instead.
Authorities say Ross then started coming toward his estranged wife. The man got his gun and ordered Ross to stop.
Deputies say Ross kept getting closer, so the man fired.
Investigators say they consulted with prosecutors and decided not to charge the shooter because he was acting in self defense.
Labels: domestic dispute, SC
5/6/08
Shreveport, Louisiana
From the Shreveport Times of May 5, 2008
Man remains in critical condition after weekend shooting
A Shreveport man remains in critical condition at LSU Hospital in Shreveport this morning after being shot by his estrange wife over the weekend.
Gary Young, 34, was shot at least once in the chest on Saturday after he went to the residence in the 5900 block of Candlewood Circle and attempted to drag the woman out of the bed, according to police.
The couple began arguing and Frances Young, 33, pulled out a handgun and shot her husband.
The woman was questioned by police and released. Police say the couple was separated.
Labels: domestic dispute, female, LA
5/4/08
Lake County, California
From the Santa Rosa Press Democrat of May 4, 2008
Lake County dentist shot wife in self-defense, police say
A Lake County dentist acted in self-defense this weekend when he shot and critically wounded his estranged wife, who was coming at him with a pickax, according to the Lake County Sheriff's Department.
Chief Deputy Sheriff James Bauman said Dr. Don Johnson, who operates Willow Tree Dental in Lakeport, does not face charges following the shooting of his wife, Margaret Johnson, during an incident at his Kelseyville home late Friday. He said Margaret Johnson was wounded by a single gunshot to her neck and was in stable, but critical, condition at Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital.
Bauman said Margaret Johnson was served with a restraining order Friday afternoon, a court order he said Don Johnson had sought "as a result of ongoing troubles with their relationship." He said Johnson's wife had left their Kelseyville home as a result of that order.
However, about 9:40 p.m. Friday, deputies responded to the home, where they found Margaret Johnson lying wounded on the floor.
Don Johnson told investigators that after he had gone to bed, he heard a woman screaming outside the home. He said he reached for a handgun and was calling the Sheriff's Department when he heard the sound of glass breaking at the rear of the house. He said that when investigating the sounds, he saw his wife entering the house armed with a pickax.
He told investigators he fired one shot, she fell to the floor and he returned to the telephone to complete his call to deputies.
"Based on evidence that Dr. Johnson acted in defense of his own life, he was not taken into custody," Bauman said. "Criminal charges against Margaret Johnson are pending further investigation of this incident."
Labels: CA, domestic dispute, home invasion
3/28/08
Columbus, Ohio
From the Columbus Dispatch of March 28, 2008
Dad fatally shot as he tried to 'jump on' son, ex-wife told 911
A South Side man fatally shot his father Monday after the father "went to jump on" him during a fight in the family home, according to a 911 call to police.
In a weary, subdued voice, Janice Carson detailed in the tape-recorded call the moments that led up to the killing of Steven J. Carson about 3:40 p.m. inside her home at 1348 Oakwood Ave.
Steven Carson, 51, no longer lived there, Janice Carson said, but she didn't explain why he was in the house.
"My ex-husband came in and went to jump on my son, and my son has shot his father," she told the call-taker.
Steven Carson was shot once, according to police. In an inventory of items police said they took during a search of the home were a .45-caliber Ruger handgun, a shell casing and a pillowcase.
Homicide detectives have not charged the son, identified in various police and court documents as Derick W. Carson, 23. They said the younger Carson might have acted in self-defense, and the case will be presented to a grand jury.
A woman who answered the front door of the home yesterday politely declined to comment, calling the shooting a devastating family tragedy.
In 2000, Steven Carson was charged with aggravated menacing and domestic violence, according to Franklin County Municipal Court records. Arrest documents accused him of threatening to kill Janice Carson, and he ultimately was given a 180-day suspended jail sentence and placed on probation for two years.
During Monday's 911 call, the Carson home was quiet except for Janice Carson's voice. She said she thought Steven Carson was dead and that her son had dropped the gun after the shooting and was seated on the stairs.
"He's in shock," she said.
She told the call-taker that her son wasn't injured.
"He ran from his father," she said.
Later in the call, Janice Carson could be heard saying, "Here, Derick, give me the gun. Sit down."
She then told the call-taker that she was holding her son, and quiet sobbing is heard.
"It'll be all right, Derick," she said. "It'll be all right."
Moments later, police officers are heard at the door.
Labels: domestic dispute, OH
2/26/08
Contra Costa County, California
From February 25, 2008 CBS channel 5:
CONTRA COSTA CO.: SUSPECT IN BAY POINT KILLING SHOT ROOMMATE IN SELF-DEFENSE
A Bay Point man arrested last week on suspicion of fatally shooting his roommate was released from jail Friday after prosecutors decided the slaying was in self-defense, Contra Costa County Sheriff's spokesman Jimmy Lee said today.
Andrew Mahler, 33, was detained for questioning Tuesday shortly after sheriff's deputies found his roommate on the sidewalk in front of their residence at 44 Pensacola St. in the unincorporated community of Bay Point suffering from a gunshot wound, Lee said.
The roommate, 31-year-old William Lenox, was taken to John Muir Medical Center in Concord where he was pronounced dead. An autopsy found that he died form a gunshot wound to the abdomen, Lee said.
The shooting had reportedly occurred inside the roommates' residence, Lee said. Mahler had then allegedly gone over to a neighbor's house and either he or the neighbor called for help shortly after 5:30 p.m.
Deputies took Mahler to the station to question him and then officially arrested him at about 10:45 p.m., Lee said. He was booked into the Martinez Detention Facility on suspicion of murder, but when investigators presented the case to the Contra Costa County District Attorney's office Friday, prosecutors declined to file charges and Mahler was released Friday afternoon, Lee said.
Labels: CA, domestic dispute
2/17/08
Kinsey, Alabama
From the Dothan Eagle of February 17, 2008
Intruder killed as he sought ex-girlfriend
Authorities said a 38-year-old Henry County man was shot and killed over the weekend after he broke into a mobile home near Kinsey, where his ex-girlfriend was staying with another man.
Dead is Jimmy Proctor of Headland, who suffered multiple gunshot wounds after he broke into the house located in a mobile home park on Lookout Lane off Alabama 52. The shooting occurred around 11:40 p.m. Saturday.
“There had been an ongoing domestic dispute with a female living at the residence where the shooting occurred and the deceased,” said Houston County Sheriff Andy Hughes. “The Sheriff’s Office has answered several domestic calls at that residence before.”
Hughes said Proctor came to the trailer, parked his vehicle at the rear of the house and forcefully entered through a rear door.
“When he got in, he made some verbal threats toward the man who shot him. The man pulled a firearm and told the guy to back off. He cocked the gun and attempted to retreat to the master bedroom/bathroom area.”
Hughes said the shooter repeatedly asked Proctor to stop. “But the suspect continued to come at him. He shot him once in the leg. The suspect kept coming and he shot him several more times with a 9 mm handgun.”
Capt. Antonio Gonzalez said authorities were called to the scene at 11:52 p.m. Proctor was shot once in the leg, twice in the torso and once in the face.
Gonzalez said it does not appear that Proctor was armed.
Proctor was transported by ambulance to Southeast Alabama Medical Center. He died about an hour later, at 12:43 a.m. Sunday, said Houston County Coroner Robert Byrd.
The shooter is not being identified by Houston County authorities. Gonzalez said he has not been charged with any crime at this point.
“We don’t know if he was the renter of the trailer house or the girl was, but someone was protecting their property,” Gonzalez said.
Gonzalez said five or six people were in the mobile home at the time of the shooting, including several children.
It is the second time in three months a suspect has been shot and killed while breaking into a home in rural Houston County. Colie Laquad Dunlap, 20, was killed by a homeowner during a breaking-and-entering on U.S. 84 East on Dec. 8, 2007. Dunlap’s brother, Christopher Lee Dunlap, 24, was charged with burglary in the case.
The homeowner was not charged but Hughes said it would most likely be turned over to a grand jury for review.
Labels: AL, domestic dispute, home invasion
Long Run, Missouri
From the News-Leader of February 17, 2008
Ava man shot during dispute
A 37-year-old man from Ava was shot with a 22 caliber weapon during a dispute Saturday.
The man’s name was not being released Sunday because no charges had been filed in the case.
On Saturday, The Ozark County Sheriff’s Department received a report of a domestic dispute near Longrun, a rural area in the county.
When the officers arrived, they learned a man broke into the house and was shot by the 38-year-old female in the home. After being shot, he fled the residence.
While the two were not married, they knew each other.
There have not been a lot of calls from this address, but the sheriff’s office is acquainted with the participants, said Sheriff Raymond Pace.
The male was found near Wasola several hours later and transported to Cox South Hospital in Springfield. As of Sunday, he was still in the hospital, Pace said.
Charges of burglary and assault are expected to be filed against the man on Tuesday, Pace said.
No charges are expected against the woman.
“She was defending herself. He broke into the house,” Pace said.
This is an example of how a domestic dispute can end in a “serious situation,” Pace said.
Labels: domestic dispute, MO
2/14/08
Tulsa, Oklahoma
From Newson6 of February 12, 2008
Domestic Dispute Leads To Shooting
The Tulsa Police Department is investigating whether a woman shot her ex-boyfriend in self-defense. It started as a domestic dispute and led to a shooting on Tuesday morning.
Officers were called to the scene near 1500 East 51st Place North around 8 a.m. Police say the woman said her ex-boyfriend had come by Monday night, slashed her tires, and then beat her.
Police say when he came back on Tuesday, she shot him four times with a .22-caliber handgun.
The man drove himself to the hospital and is expected to recover. Police say the woman was also taken to the hospital for her injuries.
Labels: domestic dispute, female, OK
1/4/08
Summerville, South Carolina
From WISTV of January 4, 2008
Man won't face charges for shooting roommate in Summerville
Prosecutors have decided not to charge a man who shot his roommate three times.
Authorities say 25-year-old Joseph Harriott threw 24-year-old Brian Sessoms out of his Summerville home New Year's Day after Sessoms hit his 16-year-old girlfriend, then warned him he would shoot if he broke back in the home.
Police say Sessoms climbed back into the house through a window on the second floor, and Harriott shot him as he came down the stairs.
Prosecutors say Harriott then tried to treat Sessoms' wound to the stomach, but Sessoms kept fighting. Harriott shot his roommate two more times.
Prosecutor Scarlett Wilson says she decided not to charge Harriott because state law for self-defense says if the first shot is justified, a person can keep shooting until a threat is eliminated.
Further links:
Shooting 911 Tape - No Charges Filed
Deadly Shooting Ruled Self Defense
Labels: domestic dispute, home invasion, SC
12/27/07
Clendenin, West Virginia
From the Charleston Daily Mail of December 27, 2007
Woman shoots her husband during fight
Police say a Clendenin woman shot her husband after an argument turned physical.
The man is in the hospital after being shot in the abdomen.
Darrell and Leisa Welch, both 31, who are a legally-separated couple, got into a verbal argument at their residence on Thorofare Road on Wednesday night, said Kanawha County Sheriff's Lt. Sean Crosier.
After the argument, Darrell left the home, but returned just before 9 p.m., Crosier said.
Leisa locked the front door when he arrived, but Darrell kicked it in, Crosier said.
The two then got into a physical fight, the deputy said.
Leisa was able to get away from Darrell and got a small, .22-caliber pistol and shot him once in the abdomen, Crosier said.
He was taken to Charleston Area Medical's Center General Hospital where he is under evaluation.
Police did not arrest or charge either person in the case, but are requesting advice from prosecuting attorneys in the ongoing case, Crosier said.
The investigation is continuing, he said.
Labels: domestic dispute, WV
12/26/07
Fresno, California
From KFSN of December 26, 2007
Man Shoots Another in Self Defense
No charges will be filed against a man who shot and killed another man in southeast Fresno on Christmas.
Police say it was self defense.
Investigators say a 26-year old man showed up at his ex-girlfriend's home on east Belgravia, around 4 a.m. to demand to see their baby.
Police say he hit the woman, pulled out a gun and threatened to shoot her.
The woman's cousin was in the home and shot the ex-boyfriend.
Police say he saved both mother and baby.
Police say the suspect had just been released from prison was deported to Mexico, but returned to the U.S.
Further links:
Man Kills In Self-Defense
Labels: CA, domestic dispute, illegal alien
Union County, Georgia
From WGCL of December 24, 2007
Mother Shot, Son Shoots Stepfather
A Fulton County woman was shot twice in the stomach early Monday morning by her estranged husband, police said.
Fulton County police said the woman was being escorted to her car in front of her home on Leisure Lane in south Fulton County by her son when her estranged husband shot her with a shotgun.
The woman's son returned fire, shooting his stepfather before calling police, investigators said.
"I had just come outside to walk my dog and I walked back in the house," said neighbor Mary Ann Washington. "As soon as I walked back in the house, I heard a girl scream and then I heard shots -- a lot of shots."
Police said the couple was involved in an on-going domestic dispute, with the woman obtaining a restraining order against her estranged husband before the shooting.
The woman's son had been walking her to her car in front of her home daily in order to provide protection for her, investigators said.
Both the woman and her estranged husband are in serious condition at a local hospital.
No information has been released on any charges that may be filed against the woman's son.
Further links:
Police: Husband Shot Wife, Son Shot Husband
Labels: domestic dispute, GA
12/17/07
Newbury, New Hampshire
From WMRU of December 17, 2007
Police: Woman Killed When Couple Shoots At Each Other
A Newbury man shot and killed his wife after she fired a shotgun blast at him during an argument, police said.
Karen Dion, 38, was killed Sunday in her driveway.
In a statement, authorities said Dion's husband, Gary Dion, 37, called police around 2:30 p.m. to report shots fired at their home. Arriving officers found Mrs. Dion's body in the driveway.
Police say the exchange of gunfire was prompted by a dispute between husband and wife.
"After that dispute, Mrs. Dion retrieved a shotgun and fired it at Mr. Dion, who was outside clearing the driveway," said a statement from the attorney general's office and police. "Mr. Dion then retrieved his own firearm and after being confronted by Mrs. Dion, who still had her shotgun, he shot and killed her in the driveway of their home."
Dion, who had been using a snowblower, was not injured, said Senior Assistant Attorney General Jeff Strelzin.
Dion has not been charged as the investigation continues. He was not armed when police arrived, Strelzin said, and was released Sunday night after questioning.
Strelzin said many details had not been pinned down, or could not be released as police investigate.
Strelzin told WMUR-TV that Mrs. Dion fired at her husband from a balcony, and that Gary Dion then got a handgun from his vehicle and shot her near a garage.
He could not elaborate on Karen Dion's wound, the number of shots fired or the nature of the dispute.
"Generally, we are looking into their relationship, their history, which will include talking to neighbors, family and friends," Strelzin said.
Strelzin said as far as they know, no one else saw the incident, and police were canvassing the neighborhood to see if anyone heard anything.
He said the home is on Mountain Road, off Route 103, and can be seen by at least one other home.
Labels: domestic dispute, NH
11/30/07
Middletown, Ohio
From WCPO of November 30, 2007
Middletown Man Found Not Guilty In Girlfriend's Death
A jury has acquitted a Middletown man accused of killing his live-in girlfriend.
Sixty-year-old Charles Frost was charged with murder in the May 11 death of 47-year-old Deborah Dockery.
Frost told a jury he and Dockery had been drinking and arguing when she came at him with a knife in their Helton Drive home.
Frost said he shot her twice in self defense, and the jury believed him and returned not guilty verdicts on all counts after nine hours of deliberation.
Further links:
Jury acquits man in fatal shooting of girlfriend
Labels: domestic dispute, OH
11/15/07
Cleburne, Texas
From the Cleburne Times-Review of November 15, 2007
Man shot Wednesday in scuffle over son
Seventeen-year-old charged with felony firearm possession
A 20-year-old Fort Worth man was shot in the chest Wednesday night while attempting to take his 15-month-old son from a residence in Burleson after a fight with another Fort Worth man, according the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office.
Ashton Lamar Miles Brown, 17, is accused of shooting Damarcus King, who was transferred to John Peter Smith Hospital. Brown was arrested on a charge of a felon in possession of a firearm. Details on King’s condition were not available.
According to reports, King, the father of the child, had sent threatening messages to the mother. King said he would harm the mother and grandmother and then take the child from the East Renfro Street home.
Brown was inside the residence with the mother and child when King arrived at the home. When King entered the residence, a fight began between the two men. At 6-3 and 200 pounds, King is three years older, six inches taller and 50 pounds heavier than Brown.
During the fight, Brown fired a shot from a 9 mm handgun, which struck King in the chest. The shot entered and exited King’s chest cavity area.
Despite the wound, the fight continued while King and Brown stumbled over a love seat. King went out the front door and collapsed in the front yard, where he remained until paramedics arrived for treatment.
Both men have prior arrest records.
Although the case is under investigation, reports indicate that the new Castle Doctrine Law may apply. The law, also known as the Defense of Habitation Law, gives people the legal right to use deadly force when defending their residence from an illegal trespasser.
Labels: domestic dispute, home invasion, minor offender, TX
11/8/07
Mobile, Alabama
From Mobile’s WKRG.com of November 7, 2007
Newlywed Fight Ends in Gunfire
A man ends up in the hospital after his wife of 4 months shoots him in the knee.
Kim Brown told the Escambia County Sheriff's Office that her newlywed husband tried to attack her in the shower, so she shot him in the knee.
Brown kicked David Crockett out of the house a few days ago and he had been sleeping in his vehicle in the backyard. This morning, deputies say Crockett forced his way into the house and tried to sexually assault his wife. During the attack, Brown grabbed a gun and shot Crockett.
Crockett was taken to Baptist Hospital. He will be charged with Battery, False Imprisonment, Attempted Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence.
Labels: AL, domestic dispute, female, rape
11/2/07
Sunrise, Florida
From Miami’s Local10.com of November 2, 2007
Police: Man Shoots, Kills Girlfriend's Ex
Police Trying To Determine If Shooting Was Act Of Self-Defense
Police said a man shot and killed another man who showed up Thursday night at a Sunrise apartment where his ex-girlfriend and her current boyfriend live.
According to Sunrise police, a man showed up at his ex-girlfriend's apartment and got into an altercation with her and her live-in boyfriend. At some point, police said, the boyfriend fatally shot the man.
Click here to find out more!
Police are trying to determine whether the shooting was an act of self-defense. No one has yet been charged.
Labels: domestic dispute, FL
10/31/07
Milton, Florida
From Fort Walton Beach’s Northwest Florida News of October 31, 2007
Ex-boyfriend shot while breaking into woman's home
A man is in critical condition after he was shot while allegedly trespassing at 4225 Reinsma Road in Milton late Tuesday night.
The resident, a woman, told deputies that she shot the man, 32-year-old Matthew Scott Strickland, in the chest because he was attempting to break into her residence, according to a release from the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office.
The woman, whose name has not been released, told dispatchers that the intruder was her ex-boyfriend.
When deputies arrived, they found Strickland unconscious in the backyard. He was taken to West Florida Hospital in Pensacola, where he remains in critical condition.
“Investigators are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident,” according to the release.
Labels: domestic dispute, female, FL, home invasion
10/20/07
Farmington, New Mexico
From the Farmington Daily Times of October 20, 2007
Charges dismissed for man accused of killing brother
The Bloomfield man accused of killing his brother in July had all charges dismissed after a preliminary hearing Friday.
Armon Martinez, 24, had been charged with first-degree murder for shooting his older brother Roman three times on July 24, 2007, after repeatedly receiving violent threats from him.
The preliminary hearing was held in Farmington Magistrate Court to determine if the District Attorney's Office had sufficient evidence to prove the killing was intended or planned, which is necessary for the case to be heard by a jury in District Court.
By dropping the charges, Magistrate Judge William Vincent expressed that he interpreted the shooting as one of self-defense.
The case for self-defense was best made in the testimony of Armon's brother, Jerome, who told the court Armon was backing up, telling his brother to "get back" as Roman approached while yelling threats.
"If a man can break you in half with his bare hands, most of us would feel it's perfectly acceptable to arm yourself and defend yourself against such a man," Defense Attorney Gary Mitchell said, referring to Roman's powerful build and demeanor.
The ruling was a disappointment, assistant district attorneys Carolyn Wilber and Eric Morrow said.
"We presented a good case," Wilber said. "I believe we pretty well established a motive for a first-degree (murder)."
That office plans to refile a new case against Martinez, likely reducing charges to second-degree murder, Wilber said after the decision.
"We'll go back and put our heads together and we'll see what we can refile on," she said.
Roman, who several family members testified was incredibly violent when he was drunk, had threatened Armon throughout the day while Armon was serving as Roman's designated driver, as well as in the preceding days.
Arnold Martinez, the men's father, told the court he was "petrified" of Roman, and had even attempted to file a restraining order against Roman the day he was killed.
The prosecuting attorneys appeared to be scrambling for objections against witnesses testifying to how afraid Armon really had been of Roman.
(More)
Labels: domestic dispute, NM
10/16/07
Florence, Alabama
From Huntsville’s WHNT.com of October 14, 2007
Man Shot by Brother
Florence Police say a man shot his brother this weekend.
It happened around noon Sunday at a house on Shelly Lane in Florence. Investigators say Beau Behel shot his brother, Sam, once in the stomach.
Doctors operated on the 39-year-old and he's in stable condition.
Police do not expect to formally charged Beau Behel. It could be self defense.
Florenc [sic] Police say Sam Behel tried to stab his brother, Beau, during an arguument [sic], so Beau pulled out a gun and fired it.
Labels: AL, domestic dispute
10/15/07
Iola, Kansas
From the Iola Register of October 15, 2007
Woman shot in dispute
Allen County Attorney Jerry Hathaway will decide whether to file charges from an incident that involved discharge of a firearm in a domestic setting a mile southwest of Iola Saturday evening.
Sheriff Tom Williams said Don Hammer, when confronted by his wife, Geraldine, holding a handgun and aiming it at him, fired a single shot that struck her hand and sent the weapon flying to the floor. The confrontation came after the couple apparently had argued, William said.
Williams said Gerlandine Hammer, 68, riding a motorized scooter, retrieved a .25 caliber handgun from a cabinet just prior to the shooting. Don Hammer was armed with a .357 caliber handgun.
“When she confronted him with the weapon, he shot it out of her hand,” the sheriff said. “He then called 911.”
Geraldine Hammer suffered a minor wound to a finger. She was taken into protective custody and was released to family after a screening by mental health authorities.
Don Hammer also was taken into custody after Lee Roberts, a 911 dispatcher, convinced him to come from the house and give himself to officers, several of whom were waiting outside.
Hammer later was released.
“We looked at the scene and everything matched statements made by both of the Hammers” that it was self defense on his part, Williams said.
The case will remain open until Hathaway decides whether charges are warranted.
Labels: domestic dispute, KS
10/13/07
Bartlett, Tennessee
From Memphis’ MyEyewitnessNews.com of October 12, 2007
New Information: Bartlett Man Shot & Killed In HomeFrom the Memphis Commercial Appeal of November 5, 2007
Eyewitness News Everywhere uncovers new information about a Bartlett man shot and killed in his home Friday, October 12, 2007. Police say either Allen Lovell’s son or wife pulled the trigger. They also say the family has a history of domestic disturbances at their Scepter Cove house.
Bartlett police say Lovell’s wife, Bobbie called them at 11:57 a.m. Friday to report that she and her son Cody were being held hostage by her husband. Police say dispatchers called back a few minutes later and were told Allen Lovell had been shot in the chest. Lovell was pronounced dead at the scene.
Bobbie and Cody Lovell were taken to the Bartlett Police Department. They were questioned for several hours. As of 8:20 p.m. Friday night, police say they do not know who fired the shot that killed Allen Lovell. They say prosecutors will determine if any charges will be filed on Monday, October 15th.
Eyewitness News Everywhere has learned this incident is far from the first time police have been called to the Lovell home. On April 28th, 2006, police charged Allen Lovell with domestic assault for beating up his son. The police report says Cody Lovell told police he "reached under the bed and pulled a silver colt . . . revolver. Cody then stated he pulled the trigger in self defense.” No was hurt during that incident.
On March 1st of this year, Allen Lovell was charged with aggravated assault. Police say Lovell threatened them with a gun, and then ran off. Police they had gone to Lovell’s home to check up on him after a friend told police Lovell was suicidal.
Lovell’s neighbor Rachel Edwards says he was a good neighbor. She says, “He was great. I liked him. He was just a good ol' boy.” But she also says she saw Lovell arguing with his family in their front yard several times. She says, “I knew they had problems, but not that drastic, not that bad.”
Allen Lovell was a boxing referee. He has been a referee for several fights at the New Daisy Theater for “Boxing on Beale.”
Charges against Bartlett wife dropped in shooting of husband
Criminal charges against a Bartlett woman who fatally shot her husband last month were dropped today after a review of the case pointed to self defense.
Dorothy ‘Bobbi’ Lovell, 42, was charged with voluntary manslaughter after shooting her husband, Alan Lovell, 46, with a .357-caliber Magnum on Oct. 12. He was a ticket agent and well-known boxing referee.
She and her 21-year-old son, Kody, told police Lovell had held them hostage for nine hours in their home at 6954 Scepter Cove. They said Lovell had acted irrationally and had pointed a gun at them several times and would not let them leave.
Bartlett police said they had been called to the home several times in the past on complaints of Lovell’s aggressive behavior.
Asst. Dist. Atty. Gen. Thomas Henderson said late today that after reviewing the police investigation of the shooting the evidence did not support a manslaughter charge and appeared to be self defense. The case was dismissed in Bartlett City Court.
Labels: domestic dispute, TN
10/2/07
Fort Worth, Texas
From the Fort Worth Star-Telegram of October 2, 2007
Man shot to death during argument with mom
A woman told police that she and her adult son argued late Monday over money, but it turned violent, and she fatally shot him, according to reports.
Martin Birdow, 34, was identified by the Tarrant County medical examiner's office.
Police were called at 11:09 p.m. to the home in the 2500 block of Pioneer Street, said Lt. Dean Sullivan, police spokesman.
The 55-year-old woman, whose name was unavailable early Tuesday, was identified as Birdow's mother, Sullivan said.
She told officers there had been an argument over financial matters and violence ensued, Sullivan said.
According to her statement to police, her son threatened to burn down the house, and when she tried to call for help, he wrestled the phone from her, Sullivan said.
The woman got a .38-caliber handgun and shot Birdow once in the chest, Sullivan said.
Birdow was taken to John Peter Smith Hospital where he was pronounced dead at 12:13 a.m., according to the medical examiner's office.
It was not clear, however, if the woman had been arrested.
Homicide detectives are reviewing evidence and the statement of the woman, who was cooperating with police, Sullivan said.
"It will probably be presented to the district attorney," Sullivan said. "Self defense could be a possibility."
But, he added, "Right now the incident is being treated as a homicide."
Labels: domestic dispute, TX
9/19/07
Custer, South Dakota
From Idaho Falls’ Idaho8.com of September 19, 2007
No charges in fatal shooting
No charges will be filed in connection with a fatal shooting last month of a Wyoming man in southwest South Dakota.
Killed was 39-year-old Kevin Fiscus of Upton.
Authorities say Fiscus was shot in the chest with a shotgun by 31-year-old Kathleen Hack at a home about 30 miles west of Custer, South Dakota.
A grand jury considered the incident and decided that Hack was acting in self defense when she killed her boyfriend.
Hack cooperated with authorities and was not arrested.
No charges were presented against a 15-year-old boy who was in the home when Fiscus was shot.
Authorities say the boy was involved in a domestic altercation that preceded the shooting.
Labels: domestic dispute, SD
9/12/07
Louisa County, Virginia
From the Charlottesville Daily Progress of September 12, 2007
Murder charges dropped against Louisa man
Charges have been dropped against a Louisa County man accused of murdering his brother-in-law.
A grand jury on Monday found that there was insufficient evidence to bring 40-year-old James E. Ward to trial on second-degree murder and firearms charges.
Authorities said Ward shot 36-year-old David Wayne Martin, his wife’s brother, after a June 18 domestic dispute.
“There was a strong indication from the very beginning that it could very well have been a self-defense case,” said Maj. Donald A. Lowe of the Louisa County Sheriff’s Office.
Martin went to Ward’s home that evening and assaulted several people, including his sister and Ward, during an argument over a grill, Lowe said.
While Martin was struggling with another occupant in the house, Ward retrieved a .22-caliber pistol and shot him in the chest, authorities said.
Martin died at the scene.
Louisa County Common-wealth’s Attorney R. Don Short said he would talk to the investigator in the case to determine if other charges are appropriate. “That would be to make sure we’ve covered all the bases, and that there isn’t some piece of evidence that we may have overlooked,” Short said.
Labels: domestic dispute, VA
8/20/07
Euless, Texas
From Fort Worth’s CBS11tv.com of August 20, 2007
Euless Police Investigate Fatal Shooting
A Euless man took a weapon into another man's home and was gunned down.
The shooting took place on the 200 block of East Ash Lane around 4 a.m. Monday.
Here's what police say happened: The victim, Brandon Couey, had been arguing with a woman when a neighbor asked the woman if she was okay. Couey, who was armed with a knife, then walked into that neighbor's apartment. That is when Couey was shot.
"We don't really know what happened ? we have an idea based on witness statements," said Lt. Wayne Paulik, Euless Police Department. "We're still going to conduct a thorough investigation.
According to police, Couey then made his way across the street to a fire station. He was taken to a hospital and died.
No arrests have been made.
Police say a grand jury will ultimately decide if the shooting was a case of self defense.
Labels: domestic dispute, home invasion, TX
8/7/07
Ozark, Arkansas
From the Fort Smith Times Record of August 7, 2007
Murder Charge Dropped
A 2006 first-degree murder charge against a former Ozark woman has been dropped, according to Prosecuting Attorney David Gibbons.
An order dismissing charges against Audrea Waldo, 24, was signed July 26 by Circuit Court Judge James Kennedy.
Waldo was accused of shooting her father, Joel Waldo, 48, on Jan. 2, 2006, at the family’s home at 504 W. Main St. in Ozark.
A probable cause affidavit filed in the case said Waldo shot at her father eight times with a .45-caliber pistol. Waldo told police she was threatened by her father and feared he would do something to her and her grandmother. Gibbons said autopsy results show the shooting victim had a large amount of methamphetamine in his system, giving credence to Audrea Waldo’s claims and justifying her use of deadly force.
According to the Ozark Spectator, Waldo now lives in Texas.
Labels: AR, domestic dispute
8/4/07
San Diego, California
From the San Diego Union-Tribune of August 4, 2007
Couple kill man while defending neighbor, police say
Neighbors shot and killed a man violating a restraining order yesterday after his ex-girlfriend found him inside her University City apartment, police said.
William and Nicole Porter, both 22, were each booked on one count of murder, San Diego police Capt. Mary Cornicelli said yesterday.
The county Medical Examiner's Office identified the victim as Larry Kermit King, 47.
Investigators said they believe the husband and wife each shot King.
The woman found King sleeping inside her apartment – at the Archstone University Towne Centre Apartments on Avenida Navidad near Genesee Avenue – about 1 a.m. when she returned home from work, Cornicelli said.
Police are still trying to determine how he got into the apartment. A restraining order prohibiting King from getting near the woman had been issued Feb. 26 in response to allegations of domestic violence.
The woman woke him up, and the two argued, Cornicelli said. The woman left her first-floor unit and went to the Porters' upstairs apartment to get help.
Minutes later, King pounded on the Porters' door.
“He was yelling . . . 'Come on out. I'm going to kill you,' ” Cornicelli said.
King left after no one answered. Cornicelli said William and Nicole Porter then armed themselves with handguns.
“Then Mr. Porter, obviously feeling threatened for himself, his wife and the other woman, decides to go outside and attempt to hold the suspect for police,” Cornicelli said. Nicole Porter stayed on her balcony.
The two men argued and then fought in a grassy area just outside the apartment. King was shot.
“We believe, at the same time, Mrs. Porter fired from the balcony,” Cornicelli said.
Cornicelli wouldn't say whether King was armed.
“All I can tell you is the deceased did not show or display any weapons,” Cornicelli said.
Paramedics were unable to resuscitate King, who stumbled into the woman's apartment after being shot.
Police recovered a handgun from William Porter and another that they said they believe Nicole Porter used. They had not determined how many times King was shot.
“The case is still pretty active,” Cornicelli said yesterday afternoon. “We've got a guy out there right now still working the scene. We'll get it all together in the next couple days.”
Police have two days to present the case to prosecutors, who will decide whether to charge or release the Porters.
Labels: CA, domestic dispute
Decatur, Alabama
From the Decatur Daily of August 4, 2007
Murder jury acquits Callahan
Morgan Circuit Court panel believes 2006 shooting of Cullman man was self-defense
A Morgan County jury sent Mark Anthony Callahan home Friday to raise his five children.
The jury acquitted Callahan, 38, in Circuit Court of murder in the July 1, 2006, shooting death of Ricky Gilley, 30, of Cullman.
The jury believed the shooting was in self-defense.
"He's certainly elated and just wanted to get home with his children," Callahan's attorney, Larry Madison, said after the verdict.
Assistant District Attorney Paul Matthews scrutinized Callahan's testimony about what happened the night of the shooting.
Callahan said he feared for his and his five children's lives. He said Gilley had gotten Callahan's gun and threatened him. He said he managed to wrestle the gun away and shot Gilley.
Callahan said an argument between him, Gilley and his girlfriend preceded the shooting.
Gilley's girlfriend, who is also Callahan's first cousin, testified that Callahan rubbed her leg and that is what caused the fight.
Testimony revealed that the three had consumed one bottle of liquor and had started on another bottle before the shooting. A pathologist testified that Gilley died from a gunshot wound to the chest. He said the shooting occurred at close range, no more than 21/2 feet away.
Madison used that testimony to argue his case, saying it proved Callahan wrestled the gun from Gilley.
Matthews told the jury that Callahan could have walked away and that there was no sign of a fight inside Callahan's home at Somerville.
"Cussing someone doesn't justify killing them," Matthews argued. "You tell him today he's not justified. He's guilty of murder."
Madison told the jury that Callahan didn't have to leave his home.
"This man was in his home and his children's home," Madison said.
He asked the jury for an acquittal, and a little less than an hour later the jury returned the verdict.
Circuit Judge Steve Haddock discharged Callahan and told him he was free to go.
He left the courtroom and, on the way out of the courthouse, kissed two of his five children whom he said he is raising alone.
Callahan told the jury Thursday that his wife abandoned him and the children more than a year ago when she left with another man.
Labels: AL, assault, criminal's gun taken away and used against him, domestic dispute
7/31/07
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
From Baton Rouge’s The Advocate of July 31, 2007
(Scroll down)
…
Police also are investigating a shooting that occurred around 5:45 a.m. Saturday at a residence at 4652 Byron Ave.
A woman at the home told police she shot her boyfriend in self-defense after he hit her several times. The man was taken to a hospital with nonlife-threatening wounds and the woman was questioned and released, police said.
Labels: domestic dispute, LA
7/30/07
Riegelwood, North Carolina
From Wilmington’s WWAYtv3.com of July 30, 2007
Riegelwood dispute turns deadly
The Columbus County Sheriff's Department says a dispute turned deadly Sunday morning. It happened around 5 a.m. on Robbie's Lane in Riegelwood.
Authorities say 23-year-old Terrell Brown broke into his girlfriend Ashley Brown's house using a machete. David Simmons was staying with her in the house and the two go [sic] into a fight.
Deputies say that's when Simmons shot and killed Terrel Brown.
Brown's friends are defending his actions.
Brandon Razor is the victim's friend. He said, "I talked to him the day before yesterday and he told me he was going to buy an engagement ring, he got engagement ring for my stepsister and he was going propose to her. He went over there to propose to her, I guess him and the new dude got into a fight and he just shot him."
Simmons went to the hospital with minor injuries.
Right now deputies say it appears the shooting was self-defense.
Labels: domestic dispute, home invasion, NC
7/18/07
Gary, Indiana
From the Gary Post Tribune of July 18, 2007
Dispute ends in fatal shooting
While calling police for help quelling a nasty fight between her two grown sons Monday evening, Kathleen Strickland heard a gunshot.
Her older son, Archie Strickland Jr., 30, was shot.
Her younger son, Andre Strickland, 22, was gone.
Archie died a short time later at Methodist Hospitals Northlake emergency room with a gunshot wound to his thigh. He was pronounced dead at 8:14 p.m., Lake County Coroner's Chief Investigator Paul Castro said.
Andre was arrested at his girlfriend's house in Brunswick on Monday night, but was released Tuesday by police after he was questioned.
Cmdr. Samuel Roberts said investigators believe Andre fired after his older brother, who suffered from bipolar personality and was recently released from a rehabilitation program, wouldn't stop his attack.
"There's an element of self- defense," Roberts said.
Lake County prosecutors are reviewing the evidence, but no charges are expected to be filed against the younger Strickland brother.
Their mother, a radio dispatcher for the Gary Police Department, told investigators her sons were arguing downstairs in their Tolleston home when Archie began hitting Andre with his fists.
Despite her efforts to intervene, the battle continued. She went upstairs to call police when she heard the single gunshot, police said.
Detective Lorenzo Davis presented the case to prosecutors Tuesday.
Labels: altercation, domestic dispute, IN
7/17/07
Morgan County, Kentucky
From Hazard’s WYMTNews.com of July 16, 2007
An Eastern Kentucky Shooting Sends One Man To The Hospital
An investigation is underway this morning into a shooting that sent one man to the hospital.
It happened just before five last night on Kentucky 589 in Morgan County.
Police say Oakie Fannin drove to the home of his ex-wife Tameila Burchett, just minutes after he called her and threatened her husband.
Authorities tell us that Fannin then drove through the yard, then turned and headed directly for Charles Burchett.
That's when Mr. Burchett fired several shots at Fannin in self defense, hitting him several times.
Police say Fannin wrecked not long after leaving the home.
He is in stable condition this morning. So far no arrests have been made.
The case is expected to be presented to the Morgan County Grand Jury.
Labels: assault, domestic dispute, KY
7/9/07
Kansas City, Missouri
From KCTV of July 9, 2007
Two People Hurt In Home Invasion
Two people were taken to the hospital after a violent home invasion in Kansas City.
An intruder broke into a house near East 18th Street and Belleview Avenue around 8:30 p.m. Sunday, police said.
The home invader stabbed someone in the house, according to authorities, and the victim then grabbed a gun and shot the intruder.
Both were taken to the hospital, one with critical injuries.
None of the names of those involved have been released.
From KMBC of July 9, 2007
1 Stabbed, 2 Shot During Confrontation At KC Home
One man was stabbed and two men were shot during a confrontation at a home near Belleview Avenue and Holly Street Sunday night.
The homeowner told KMBC's Brenda Washington that it was connected to her son's relationship with his girlfriend.
Police said two men came to the duplex looking for a 20-year-old man, forced their way in and stabbed him.
Investigators said the man fought back and shot the two men.
The mother of the 20-year-old said that she believes the men may be family members of her son's girlfriend.
Police are still investigating.
Labels: assault, domestic dispute, home invasion, MO
7/6/07
Louisville, Kentucky
From July 6, 2007 WLKY channel 32:
LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- Police are calling the causes of death for two people found dead together in an apartment at the 1000 block of Muhammad Ali Boulevard a double homicide.
Metro police said a mother, Bonnie Porter, 45, and her son, Leon Porter, 28, were found dead in the apartment Thursday. Investigators said the son fired several rounds at the mother and, while defending herself, she shot him in the head, resulting in both their deaths.
Family members said Leon was being treated for mental illness.
Labels: defender killed, domestic dispute, KY
Park City, Kentucky
From the Bowling Green Daily News of July 5, 2007
Wounded shooter may be charged
A Park City man may face charges after police said he shot into a home Wednesday - if he survives several gunshot wounds suffered when the person inside the home returned fire.
Kentucky State Police were called to 96 Tisdale St. after shots were fired and found Terry Conwell lying in the roadway, said Trooper Todd Holder, spokesman for Kentucky State Police in Bowling Green.
Conwell, 33, of Park City arrived at the residence and began shooting at the house with an AK 47, Holder said. Conwell then broke into the house by shooting off the doorknob.
When inside, Conwell continued shooting and Matthew Pulley, 20, of Bowling Green returned fire striking Conwell several times, Holder said.
The shooting occurred at 6:45 p.m., according to a state police report.
Conwell was removed from the scene, initially taken to The Medical Center and then transferred to Vanderbilt University Medical Center where he is in critical but stable condition, Holder said.
“Detective Forest Winchester will seek an indictment against Conwell with the Barren County Commonwealth's Attorney's Office based on his release from the hospital,” Holder said.
Conwell could face anticipated charges of attempted murder and first-degree burglary, according to state police.
There will be no charges filed against Pulley, Holder said. Monica Wilson, 19, and Joyce Davidson, 42, both of Park City, were inside the house as well when shots were fired.
Pulley, Wilson and Davidson were not injured, according to state police.
“There were some rumors this may have been because of an ongoing feud, but at this time those are just rumors,” said Barren County Sheriff Chris Eaton.
Conwell was attempting to get into the house because of an ongoing domestic situation, Holder said.
Labels: assault, domestic dispute, home invasion, KY
7/2/07
London, Kentucky
From Lexington's WKYT of July 2, 2007
Man Shoots and Kills Son-In-Law
Police say a homeowner shot and killed a man, suspected of trying to break into his home.
It happened in a trailer on Sinking Creek Road late Sunday night, just off west Highway 80.
Kentucky State Police tell 27 NEWSFIRST 46-year-old Jesse Justice reportedly tried to enter the home, and that he was armed with a Machete.
When police arrived, they found Justice dead at the scene, shot and killed by the homeowner, Paul Whitworth, the suspects father-in-law.
Police say that an active Domestic Violence Disorder was in effect at the time against Justice, taken out by his wife, Edna Whitworth, and her parents.
No charges have been filed in the case.
The incident remains under investigation by the Laurel County Major Crimes Task Force.
Labels: domestic dispute, home invasion, KY
6/24/07
D'Iberville, Mississippi
From Biloxi’s WLOX.com of June 23, 2007
Police: D'Iberville Man Shot Dead After Threatening WifeFrom the Picayune Item of June 26, 2007
An overnight shooting in Harrison County has left a man dead. Deputies say it happened about 1:30 Friday morning at a home on Windsor Hill Drive in D'Iberville.
Gene Hudson, 52, was shot to death by his estranged wife after police say he threatened her with a gun.
No charges have been filed, but a Grand Jury will hear evidence in the case.
Police: Woman fatally shoots husbandFrom the Biloxi Sun-Herald of June 26, 2007
Authorities say they aren’t likely to file charges against a woman accused of fatally shooting her husband until a grand jury looks at the case.
The shooting happened early Friday morning. Police say that during a heated argument, Gene Hudson pointed a gun at his estranged wife. She pulled out her own gun and fired, according to police.
Police found Hudson, a 52-year-old Moss Point man, in a “large pool of blood” around 1:30 a.m. Friday, said Harrison County Coroner Gary Hargrove.
Investigators believe Hudson’s estranged wife, whose name has not been released, shot him several times after an argument at her home, according to a written statement from Harrison County Sheriff George Payne. She was not injured.
Police found Hudson on the ground down the street from his wife’s home, according to sources. He was later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital.
Harrison County Sheriff’s Capt. Ron Pullen said investigators are continuing to look into the case, but it’s unlikely any arrest will be made before a grand jury review.
“I’m not calling it self-defense at this point, but there was enough evidence there that suggests we should let the grand jury look at it,” he said.
Husband was shot three times
He had pulled gun on his wife
In new details revealed Monday, police said Gene Hudson's estranged wife shot him three times with a .38-caliber handgun after an argument at her home last week.
According to police, Hudson pulled a gun on his estranged wife and threatened to kill her during a domestic dispute early Friday morning. Instead, she grabbed her own gun, pointed it at Hudson and fired three rounds.
Labels: assault, domestic dispute, MS
6/18/07
Jacksonville, Florida
From Jacksonville’s FirstCoastNews.com of June 18, 2007
Police To Decide on Charges in Murray Hill Shooting
Police are still trying to determine if a Jacksonville man should be charged with murder following a shooting in Murray Hill Sunday night. It happened in the 3600 block of Dellwood Avenue.
A man, who police say was terrorizing his girlfriend, was shot and killed on the porch of a house. It all started Sunday afternoon after a man and woman, believed to be boyfriend and girlfriend, got into an argument.
The woman filed a domestic violence-related report against the man but he continued threatening her. He showed up at the home on Dellwood Avenue. Police say the homeowner came outside on the porch and shot the man.
"Basically, now we're just interviewing the witness and the person who did the shooting. The state attorney is on the scene and we're going to determine if this was a justifiable homicide at this point," said Sgt. Derrick Lewis, Jacksonville Sheriff's Office.
At this time, police believe the homeowner was acting in self defense. They have not made any arrests and have not said if any charges will be filed.
Labels: domestic dispute, FL
6/15/07
Kalispell, Montana
Ordinarily, pleading no contest or guilty would knock someone right out of the running for further claiming self-defense, but the husband’s conduct was violent and threatening.
From the Daily InterLakePublication of June XX, 2007
Shooter gets no jail timeFrom Corpus Christi’s (TX) KRIStv.com of June 15, 2007
Braunig-Haag claimed self-defense in death of husband
A North Fork woman who shot her husband to death will serve no jail time.
In a deal worked out between County Attorney Ed Corrigan and defense attorneys Patrick Sherlock and Sean Hinchey, District Court Judge Kitty Curtis sentenced Rebecca Braunig-Haag to a 10-year suspended sentence with 10 years probation Thursday.
Originally charged with deliberate homicide, she pleaded “no contest” to an amended charge of negligent homicide in April.
“She does have a claim for self-defense,” Corrigan said. “She, quite frankly, is unlikely to incur a further criminal history. I do believe the conviction for negligent homicide holds her accountable.”
In a statement to the judge, Braunig-Haag said she was sorry and that she loved her husband.
“I was so scared I picked up the gun to keep him from killing us,” she said. “More than anything, I didn’t want to shoot him.”
At the sentencing hearing, defense attorneys called a number of witnesses, including neighbors and family members, who testified to Braunig-Haag’s remorse, good character, and mental health. A private investigator hired by the defense also testified to events that occurred the day Braunig-Haag’s husband died.
Braunig-Haag was 51 at the time she shot her husband, Von Stanley Haag, 60, in the chest with a .44 caliber Magnum.
She told investigators he had threatened to burn down their home if she didn’t accompany him on a trip to Texas to attend his father’s funeral.
Braunig-Haag and her husband had both retired from supervisory jobs with the San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department a year or two before the shooting, according to reports.
They began spending more time at their home in the Trail Creek area, but also maintained a home in San Antonio.
The Nov. 7, 2005, argument over whether or not to attend the funeral escalated to the point where Braunig-Haag said she feared her husband would burn the house down. He threatened her and poured gasoline throughout the house, she told police.
That’s when she shot him and called neighbors for help, reports said.
Flathead County Sheriff’s deputies arrested Braunig-Haag and she originally was charged with murder. Bond was set at $500,000 in her November 2005 arraignment, but was later reduced to $50,000 in January 2006.
Had Judge Curtis decided to give Braunig-Haag prison time, she would have been allowed to withdraw her “no contest” plea and gone to trial. If convicted of deliberate homicide, she could have been sentenced to life or up to 100 years in prison. Two to 10 years could have been added for use of a firearm. The maximum sentence for negligent homicide is 20 years in prison.
Woman gets suspended sentence in husband's shooting death
A former Texas resident who said she accidentally shot her husband during a domestic altercation in 2005 was sentenced Thursday to probation.
Rebecca Braunig-Haag, 52, originally was charged with murder in the death of Von S. Haag, 60, but she later pleaded no contest to negligent homicide.
Following the terms of the plea agreement, District Judge Kitty Curtis gave Braunig-Haag a 10-year suspended sentence with 10 years of probation Thursday.
"She does have a claim for self-defense," Flathead County Attorney Ed Corrigan said. "She, quite frankly, is unlikely to incur a further criminal history. I do believe the conviction for negligent homicide holds her accountable."
Braunig-Haag was arrested in November 2005 after deputies found Von Haag dead of a gunshot wound at the couple's home on the western edge of Glacier National Park.
Braunig-Haag went to a neighbor's house to report the shooting. She told investigators that her husband, in a rage, had poured gasoline around the house and threatened to set it on fire if she didn't accompany him to his father's funeral in Texas.
She said she picked up a gun and pointed it at him when it discharged.
Labels: assault, domestic dispute, MT
6/14/07
Houston, Texas
From the Click2Houston of June 14, 2007
Stepfather Fatally Shoots Stepson
A stepfather shot his stepson to death in their southwest Houston apartment on Wednesday, officials told KPRC Local 2.
Houston police said the stepfather fired multiple shots during an argument at the Briarwest Apartments on Winrock Boulevard near Del Monte Drive at about 8:30 p.m.
Daniel M. Reed, 41, died at the scene.
Investigators said Reed was at the apartment with his mother and son and began verbally abusing his mother.
When he got home, the stepfather tried to calm Reed down. Police said the stepfather, fearing for the safety of he and his wife, got a handgun from a bedroom.
Reed threw a nearly full can of beer at his mother, officials said.
Detectives said the stepfather shot Reed when he followed his mother to her room when she went to change her clothes.
The case will be referred to a grand jury to determine if charges will be filed.
Labels: domestic dispute, TX
6/12/07
Crawford County, Arkansas
From Ft. Smith’s 4029.com of June 12, 2007
Crawford County Man Shot, KilledFrom Ft. Smith’s KFSM.com of June 12, 2007
Officials said a Crawford County man was shot and killed Monday night in front of his wife and children.
Bobby Joe Freeman, 32, was killed at his home off Cartwright Mountain Road, police said.
Freeman's family told police he became aggressive, so they hid in a bedroom. When Freeman barged into the room, investigators said, Freeman's stepfather shot him.
Sheriff's officials said it appears the shooting was in self-defense.
Fatal shooting could be self-defense
A Texas man was killed Monday night in a shooting that investigators believe could have been self-defense.
Crawford County sheriff's deputies were called to 17800 Cartwright Mountain Road near Chester around 9:30, where they found found 30-year-old Bobby Jo Freeman unresponsive with a single gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
A few weeks ago Freeman, his wife, and their two children had moved to the residence, which belongs to Freeman's mother and stepfather, from Vernon, Texas.
They were all present at the time of the shooting, but police won't say which family member shot Freeman.
Deputies say they have been called to the residence before a number of times for domestic violence reports, and that could have played a factor in Monday night's shooting.
From interviews, they know Freeman crashed his pickup earlier that night, and had to be given a ride to the house from someone in a white Extended Cab or four-door pickup.
Now deputies are asking that person to come forward, so they can find out more about what state Freeman was in when he got home.
Labels: AR, domestic dispute
Tuscumbia, Alabama
From the Thibodaux Daily Comet (LA) of June 12, 2007
Sheffield man acquitted in 2005 killing of mom's boyfriend
A Colbert County jury has acquitted a Sheffield man of murder in the shooting death of his mother's boyfriend, a killing he claimed was in self-defense when threatened in his home.
Cameron Stephan Garth, 46, was acquitted Monday after testifying that he shot Mitchell Parnell, 64, after he returned home in the early hours of July 3, 2005, and questioned Parnell about why his mother was crying.
"He said he was going to cut my throat," Garth said. "It made me mad because he said he was going to cut my throat in my own home."
Garth said he got a .38-caliber revolver from his bedroom and fired when Parnell, who was sitting on a bed, lunged at him.
Prosecutors told the jury it was not an act of self-defense.
"It's unreasonable for him to try and have you believe he was afraid of a 64-year-old man with heart disease and emphysema," Assistant District Attorney Angela Hulsey said.
But defense attorney Steve Aldridge asked jurors to put themselves in Garth's shoes.
"If you had come home at two in the morning and the first thing you hear is the evil man say 'I will cut your throat' and then you hear your mama crying in the bathroom, would you have gotten a gun?" Aldridge asked.
Labels: AL, assault, domestic dispute
6/9/07
Athens, Alabama
From the Decatur Daily of June 9, 2007
Stepdad kills son: police
Athens authorities say shooting appears to be self-defense; parents threatened with ax
Athens police responded Friday night to a shooting at an Athens home and found one man dead in an apparent act of self-defense.
Athens Police Chief Wayne Harper said Jason Bickerstaff, 38, of Athens came to the home of his mother and stepfather at 301 Gale Lane demanding a shotgun and threatening them with a double-bladed ax.
The incident occurred at about 8 p.m., when a neighbor reported hearing Bickerstaff drive up and later heard Bickerstaff's mother, Linda Curtis, screaming. The neighbor said she did not hear any gunfire.
Bickerstaff's stepfather, Dave Curtis, went into the bedroom to get the shotgun, Harper said. Bickerstaff followed and again threatened his stepfather with the ax and knocked him down. At that point, Dave Curtis retrieved a pistol he had in the bedroom and shot Bickerstaff, Harper said.
Limestone County Coroner Mike West said Bickerstaff had two gunshot wounds in his chest, both from a .38-caliber pistol.
After the shooting, Dave Curtis went outside to wait for Athens police to arrive, Harper said.
Harper said police are not yet sure why Bickerstaff was demanding the shotgun, but he said police had received a report earlier Friday that Bickerstaff had been involved in an altercation with someone over money.
Police were still investigating the case late Friday. Harper said there were no plans to charge Dave Curtis in the shooting.
Labels: AL, assault, domestic dispute
6/3/07
Cordova, Tennessee
From Memphis’ MyEyeWitnessNews.com of June 3, 2007
New Information: MPD Officer Killed in Cordova Home Invasion
A 27 year-old Memphis police officer was killed Sunday, June 3, 2007, after he kicked open a door at the home of his former girlfriend, who is also a Memphis police officer.
Deputies were called to the 1200 block of Breezy Gate Drive in East Shelby County near Cordova just after 8 a.m. They found 27 year-old Jeremy Kyle shot to death near a downstairs bedroom.
The woman who lives at the house, 27 year-old Teresita Watson, told Sheriff's Detectives the intruder was her co-worker and former boyfriend. Watson says after Kyle kicked open the backdoor of her home, he walked to the bedroom and pointed a gun at her and another man who was with her, 22 year-old Justin Davis of Memphis.
There was an exchange of gunfire. Kyle was shot in the chest. He died at the scene. Watson was also shot. The bullet grazed her stomach area. She was treated and released from the Regional Medical Center. Davis was not hurt.
Watson's three young children, ages 3, 5 and 9 years-old, were upstairs in a bedroom. They were not hurt.
Sheriff's detectives say Davis admitted shooting Kyle when he aimed the gun at him and Watson. No charges have been filed against Davis.
Sheriff's Deputies had been called to the house before. On April 20, 2007, Watson and Kyle were involved in an argument. Investigators say it was settled without anyone being arrested. Also on December 31, 2006, deputies were called to the Breezy Gate Drive address when Kyle removed some belongings from the house. No one was arrested in that incident.
Both Kyle and Watson worked at the Old Allen Station. Kyle worked for Memphis police for 3 years. Watson worked for the department for 4 years.
Labels: domestic dispute, home invasion, TN
5/30/07
Albany, Vermont
From Burlington’s WCAX.com of May 30, 2007
Man Arrested After Albany ShootingFrom the St. Johnsbury Caledonian-Record News of May 31, 2007
A man is facing charges, after he was shot.
Police say 31-year-old Eric Kelley, of Stowe, broke into his estranged wife's house in Albany and assaulted her and her brother.
During the scuffle, Kelley was shot and suffered minor injuries.
He was the only one charged in the case.
Stowe Man Released After Shooting Incident
A Stowe man pleaded innocent Wednesday to domestic and simple assault charges in Orleans District Court after being shot in Albany.
Eric Kelley, 31, was still clad in a hospital gown and bound in chains when he stood before Judge Christina Reiss.
Police said Kelley was shot after he tried to break into his estranged wife's home in Albany and attacked her brother and father.
He had been treated at North Country Hospital in Newport City after police said he was shot and grazed Tuesday morning when a side-by-side shotgun went off. The gun had been held by David Croteau, the father of Kelley's estranged wife Dawn, police said.
Police did not say whether Croteau tried to shoot Eric Kelley or whether it went off by accident when Kelley knocked Croteau down.
Kelley pleaded innocent to felony unlawful trespassing into an occupied dwelling, and misdemeanor charges of domestic and simple assault and unlawful mischief.
Orleans County sheriff's deputies released Kelley after he signed conditions of release, including that he not contact or harass Dawn and her family members, including mother, Cindy Croteau, and brother Douglas, records show.
Reiss also ordered Kelley to obey family court orders and not be cited for any other criminal complaints.
(More)
Labels: domestic dispute, VT
5/25/07
Los Angeles, California
From Los Angeles’ KABC.com of May 25, 2007
Ryan O'Neal Won't Face Criminal Charges
Prosecutors declined Friday to charge Ryan O'Neal with assault with a deadly weapon for firing a gun during a brawl with his older son earlier this year.
There was insufficient evidence "to prove this case to a jury beyond a reasonable doubt," said a report from the Los Angeles County District Attorney's office.
"Witnesses gave, in different interviews, conflicting stories" of what happened during the brawl, said Jane Robison, a spokeswoman for the district attorney's office.
Mark Werksman, O'Neal's attorney, said prosecutors did the right thing by declining to pursue the case.
"It's a tremendous relief for Mr. O'Neal to have this resolved favorably in this manner," said Werksman, claiming his client acted in self-defense.
O'Neal, 66, was arrested at his Malibu home Feb. 3 for investigation of assault with a deadly weapon and negligent discharge of a firearm. He was freed on a $50,000 bond.
The actor has said he fired a warning shot to scare his 42-year-old son, Griffin O'Neal, who had attacked him with a fireplace poker.
He said his son lashed out at him during a fight, but he ducked and the poker struck Griffin O'Neal's pregnant girlfriend, Joanna Berry. She needed stitches for a facial cut, her attorney has said.
Werksman said Ryan O'Neal suffered bruises to his arms and legs when he was struck several times.
Labels: CA, domestic dispute
4/25/07
Dallas, Texas
From the Dallas Morning News of April 25, 2007
Police: Man kills daughter's boyfriend
A Dallas man fatally shot his daughter's estranged boyfriend in Pleasant Grove late Tuesday after he attacked her, police said.
Byron Hutchinson, 20, died at a local hospital. Larry Overshown, 54, was arrested on suspicion of murder. He was being held Wednesday in the Dallas County Jail in lieu of $25,000 bail.
According to police, Mr. Hutchinson and the woman had been having problems, and she obtained a protective order against him. She has a child with him, police said.
Mr. Hutchinson came to the residence in the 900 block of Cedarvale Court about 9:30 p.m. Tuesday. Witnesses told police that he began hitting and shoving the woman in the yard.
Mr. Overshown came out of the house and told Mr. Hutchison to stop attacking his daughter, police said.
Witnesses told police that Mr. Hutchinson tried to hit Mr. Overshown, who then shot him once in the chest. Mr. Overshown called the police.
"He was a very cooperative and concerned parent," said Sgt. Gene Reyes, a homicide unit supervisor. "He got tired of this Byron Hutchinson coming over and causing problems for his daughter."
A grand jury will decide whether Mr. Overshown will be indicted.
Labels: domestic dispute, stalking, TX
4/23/07
Ville Platte, Louisiana
From the April 18, 2007 Associated PressInternational Herald Tribune:
VILLE PLATTE, Louisiana: A woman and her estranged husband killed each other when he came to her house in spite of a restraining order, authorities said.
Brenda Ortego Prudhomme, 59, and her husband, Carroll Wayne Prudhomme, 61, shot each other Monday at the rental house where Brenda Prudhomme had moved a few weeks ago, Ville Platte police Sgt. Linton Fontenot said.
He said the couple divorcing and "it wasn't going well" The Daily World reported Wednesday.
"He broke into her apartment and shot at her once but missed," Fontenot said. "She ran to the utility room where he shot at her again, this time hitting her in the torso."
She had retrieved a weapon, apparently stored in the utility room. "She returned fire, hitting him in the abdomen," Fontenot said. Both died at a hospital.
Labels: domestic dispute, home invasion, LA
4/19/07
Reno, Ohio
From the Marietta Times of April 19, 2007
Local jury acquits Reno man of assault
A Washington County jury decided Wednesday a Reno man was justified in clubbing his nephew and firing a gun at a vehicle outside his residence last August.
Mark W. Dunn, 54, of 65 Shady Hill Road, Reno, had faced up to 32 years in prison and $60,000 in fines after he was charged with assaulting his nephew, Jason Dunn, 20, of Marietta, and firing a gun at the man’s vehicle as it pulled from his residence.
Mark Dunn said his nephew arrived at his home drunk and with two friends around 2 a.m. Aug. 28 looking to settle a dispute. He claimed self-defense for clubbing the man and for later firing a gun.
Assistant Washington County Prosecutor Susan Vessels argued Dunn had a responsibility to walk away from the fight. She accused Mark Dunn of not fighting fair by bringing weapons to the fight.
“We can’t live in a society where we let people take the law into their own hands,” Vessels said. “We can’t live in a county where we let people take clubs and guns to a fist fight.”
Mark Dunn testified he tried to convince his belligerent nephew to peacefully leave his residence. When that failed, he said he tried to back the man away from his home with a club. He said that’s when Jason Dunn knocked him to the ground. While still on the ground, Mark Dunn said he began swinging a club at the man’s legs.
“It had no effect,” Mark Dunn said.
As he started to stand, Mark Dunn said his nephew drew his fist back to strike him. That’s when he struck him on top of the head with the club.
“He was towering over me,” Mark Dunn said. “I was going to get hurt. He’s no kid anymore. He’s a big guy.”
Dunn’s attorneys, Rolf Baumgartel and Bill Burton, said Jason Dunn was several inches taller and about 100 pounds heavier than their client at the time of the fight.
After striking Jason Dunn on the head, Mark Dunn said his nephew staggered back and fell against a car. As he went to check on him, he said two other men he hadn’t seen before came at him — one with a stick.
“I asked him what he thought he was going to do with that ... He said, ‘I’m going to defend myself.’ That’s when I said ‘to hell with this, I’m going to get my gun,” Dunn said. “It was three against one. There was two standing and one on the ground and I knew he was going to be getting up soon and that he was going to be double-mad.”
After grabbing a .22 rifle from inside his home, Mark Dunn said he came back out looking for the three men. He said he walked up behind their vehicle when he heard his nephew instruct the driver to run him down with the car.
“I thought they were going to squash me in my own driveway,” Mark Dunn said. “I tried to shoot the tires out. I wanted the car to stop. I was shooting at the tires, not the car.”
After two full days of testimony, the jury of 11 women and one man deliberated for about five hours before reaching the verdict.
Baumgartel said people have an absolute right to defend themselves.
“When you go to someone’s home at 2:15 in the morning and you get hurt — that’s just too bad,” Baumgartel said. “Jason Dunn didn’t just exercise bad judgment, he broke the law.”
Labels: assault, domestic dispute, OH
4/17/07
Long Beach, California
From the Long Beach Press-Telegram of April 17, 2007
L.B. man, 52, cleared of murder charges
Police and prosecutors say Breul acted in self defense during argument.
A 52-year-old Long Beach man accused of murder was cleared of the charge last week after police and prosecutors found the case was one of self-defense, authorities said Monday.
Gregg Breul was arrested at the scene of the crime shortly after he allegedly shot 32-year-old Ian Birkett on April 6, said Officer Juan Gomez, a Long Beach Police Department spokesman.
Officers responding to a 911 call found both men - whom police described as acquaintances - at Breul's home on West 47th Street near Rio Avenue. Paramedics rushed the victim to Long Beach Memorial Medical Center, where he died, Gomez said.
As homicide investigators delved into the case, however, the evidence and witness statements all pointed to self defense, according to a report filed by Deputy District Attorney Laurie Trammell.
Witnesses told police Birkett had gone to Breul's home to pick up his girlfriend and got into a fight with Breul as the couple began to leave.
At some point, Birkett - who was quite a bit larger than Breul - picked up a hammer. When Breul saw Birkett yelling at his girlfriend outside and told him to stop, the victim charged at Birkett, screaming that he was "going to kill him," according to Trammell's report.
Breul then opened fire, shooting multiple rounds until the gun's chamber was empty, the report states.
The murder charge was dropped on April 9 and Breul was released from the Men's Central Jail where he had been held on $1 million bail, according to court and jail records.
"It seemed to be a clear case of justifiable homicide," Homicide Lt. Rich Rocchi said Monday. "But if any new witnesses were to come forward or new evidence is found we would investigate (further)."
Birkett's cousin, Misty Martinez, said witnesses told his family that the men had been fighting over Birkett's girlfriend.
Labels: CA, domestic dispute
4/15/07
Cottondale, Florida
From Tallahassee.com of April 15, 2007
Shootout left one person critically injured
An argument between a Cottondale woman and her estranged husband resulted in a shootout Saturday night.
The Jackson County Sheriff's Office received a 911 call around 11:40 p.m. from Paul Barber Jr., 52, stating that a man and a woman had been shot at his home, located in the 3400 block of Omaha Trail in Cottondale just west of Marianna. When deputies arrived, the front door had been kicked open and Julian Shiver, 44, and Felisia Shiver, 45, were lying on the floor.
According to reports, Felisia Shiver was visiting Barber when her estranged husband arrived. He wasn't let in so and (sic) he allegedly kicked the front door open. The confrontation grew into an argument where Julian Shiver pulled out a handgun and shot Felisia Shiver at least once in the head.
Maj. John Dennis said Barber pulled out a shotgun and the two men exchanged gunfire. Reports said Barber struck Julian Shiver twice in the torso.
Both Julian and Felisia Shiver were taken to Flowers Hospital in Dothan, Ala., and have undergone surgery. Dennis said Julian Shiver is in stable condition, and Felisia Shiver is in critical condition.
As of now, Julian Shiver could faces charges of attempted murder and armed burglary.
"He hasn't been arrested at this time. We're waiting to find out his condition,"
Labels: assault, domestic dispute, FL, home invasion
4/14/07
Somerville, Alabama
From the Decatur Daily of April 13, 2007
Brother says shots fired in self-defense
A man said Wednesday his only intention in shooting his half-brother's car was to end a rampage that had already injured two.
Brent Campbell of Somerville said claims by his former stepmother, Karen Campbell, that he gave her son, Cheston Jared Campbell, drugs or alcohol prior to the incident were untrue.
"We know where Jared got the drugs from, and that wasn't from here," said Brent Campbell. "Jared never got drunk at my house. Other than what he showed up with, there were no drugs at my house."
(A very long account of a very bloody fight follows)
Labels: AL, domestic dispute
4/12/07
Casper, Wyoming
From the Casper Star Tribune of April 12, 2007
Shooting victim tried to defend himself, detective says
Before being killed, Mark Fisher managed to fire a single shot at the man who had just blasted into his Casper home, a police detective testified today.
Police found a shotgun with one spent cartridge on Foster's body when they discovered him in his North Kenwood Street home on April 1. He had been fatally shot in the chest and head.
The man accused of killing him, 42-year-old Casper resident Edward Taylor, should be tried for first-degree murder in connection with Fisher's death, a judge ruled at the conclusion of Taylor's preliminary hearing in Natrona County Circuit Court today.
Fisher fired at Taylor in self defense, Casper police detective Kathryn Davison testified at the hearing. Officers found that the locked doors to Fisher's home had been blasted open.
Shortly before the killing, Taylor confronted his wife after seeing her leave Fisher's home, Davison said. Edward and Beth Taylor had been in the process of getting a divorce.
Labels: assault, defender shot, domestic dispute, home invasion, WY
4/11/07
Phoenix, Arizona
From Tucson’s Fox11AZ.com of April 11, 2007
Arizona Man shot in the head drives self to hospital
A Phoenix area (sic) drove himself to the hospital Friday morning after he was shot in the head, allegedly by his ex-girlfriend's new boyfriend.
The shooting, which apparently started as a domestic violence, happened near 38th Avenue and McDowell Road, police said. The wounded man reportedly drove himself from the scene to the hospital.
It all started around 6:15 a.m., when the 25-year-old man allegedly kicked in the door to an apartment where his ex-girlfriend and her new boyfriend were sleeping.
"They heard a quick knock on the door, followed immediately by someone trying to kick the door in," said Sgt. Joel Tranter of the Phoenix Police Department. "The door was, in fact, kicked in. A male subject ... forced entry into the apartment."
Investigators said the new boyfriend grabbed his gun and shot the intruder at least once.
According to police, the ex-boyfriend, whose name has not been released, left the apartment, jumped into his car and drove himself from the scene to nearby Maryvale Hospital.
So far, no charges have been filed against the new boyfriend in connection with this morning's incident. Police said the shooting appears to be a case of self defense and will leave the decision on charges to the county attorney.
The ex-boyfriend, whose injuries were not life threatening, will likely face charges of burglary and possibility aggravated assault.
Labels: AZ, domestic dispute, home invasion
3/29/07
Tieton, Washington
From the Yakima Herald of March 29, 2007
Deputies investigate Tieton shooting
Yakima County sheriff's deputies said a Tieton man shot his 35-year-old son in the abdomen early this morning in a possible case of self-defense.
The shooting took place at 4 a.m. at a home in the 1100 block of Beffa Road in the Tieton area, according to information from sheriff's Chief of Detectives Stew Graham.
Graham said Dennis G. Strain, 59, shot his son, Dennis J. Strain, once in the abdomen after they argued and the younger man charged his father.
The younger man was taken to Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital, where he underwent surgery. Graham said the wound is not considered life-threatening.
No arrests have been made, and the investigation is continuing, Graham added.
Labels: domestic dispute, WA
3/28/07
New Orleans, Louisiana
From the New Orleans Times Picayune of March 28, 2007
Shooting of son ruled justified(More)
Defense notes victim arrived with a gun
A New Orleans man who shot his son five times after an argument, leaving him paralyzed and in a wheelchair, acted in self-defense, a jury decided Monday evening.
James S. Frazier, 50, who spent a lifetime in the U.S. Marines, is free from the criminal charge of attempted second-degree murder for the March 21, 2005, shooting at the eastern New Orleans apartment building where he lived.
The jury believed the elder Frazier's story that the violent incident was all in self-defense, because the son had brought a 9-mm handgun to his father's apartment that night.
James Frazier wasn't injured, and no evidence showed the son ever successfully fired his handgun. The gun jammed, and no bullet came out. Eric Frazier was left bleeding on a third-floor landing.
The defense said that James Frazier, a 29-year veteran of the Marines, feared for his life after his son pointed a gun at him, so he went into his bedroom and returned with a .45-caliber handgun, which he blasted repeatedly at his son, who is now 23 years old.
After about 1 1/2 hours of deliberating, jurors acquitted the father, finding he acted in self-defense and that the son started the conflict.
"You bring a gun, you act like that, you have to pay a price," defense attorney Martin Regan argued Monday during closing arguments. "If you want to kill him, you put a bullet through his head or his heart."
The four-day trial at Orleans Parish Criminal District Court included much testimony about the broken relationship between the son and father, complete with allegations that James Frazier was more deadbeat than dad and that he abandoned his children when they were toddlers.
Regan went after the son, depicting him as a liar who wanted his father in prison for leaving him paralyzed. The jury heard that Eric Frazier had spent time locked up in a juvenile facility as a teenager, having made threats to his mother and sister. Regan referred to Eric as "junior" and said he had "mental problems," while repeating that his own client had no previous criminal record.
"This man loves his family," Regan told the jury. "He thinks the world of them."
Labels: domestic dispute, LA
3/20/07
Bradley County, Tennessee
From Chattanooga’s WRCBtv.com of March 20, 2007
Update: Bradley Domestic Dispute
Bradley County Sheriff's officers investigated a violent domestic dispute.
The call came Monday night at 314 Peachtree Circle when two 9-1-1 calls were placed from the house shortly after 8 o'clock. The first caller said a man threatened a woman with a knife while the second reported a gunshot.
Deputies found 36 year old Danny J.Catlett with a gunshot wound to his shoulder while 44 year old Gayla Catlett has knife cuts to her clothing. Investigators say the couple was arguing and Danny Catlett threatened his wife with a knife. They say she got a handgun and shot him in the shoulder.
Paramedics airlifted Danny Catlett to Erlanger Medical Center with what appears to be non life-threatening injuries. So far no charges have been filed.
Labels: domestic abuse, domestic dispute, TN
3/10/07
Vallejo, California
From Vacaville’s The Reporter of March 10, 2007
Domestic dispute leaves one dead
An apparent domestic dispute erupted into a running gunbattle in Vallejo early Friday, leaving a Suisun City woman dead and a Vallejo man injured.
Vallejo police Sgt. Vic Massenkoff identified the dead woman as 34-year-old Sharon Cobb of Suisun City. Injured during the exchange of gunfire was 27-year-old Rashann Rice of Vallejo. Rice was treated at a regional trauma center and later was released.
Massenkoff said the pair apparently had a previous relationship and a 1-year-old child.
Preliminary reports, Massenkoff said, indicated that Cobb had sought out Rice and confronted him shortly before 5:50 a.m. Friday as he walked along the 300 block of Fairgrounds Drive.
Cobb apparently drew a handgun and shot at Rice, who ran as Cobb continued to fire, striking him twice. Rice, Massenkoff said, is then believed to have drawn his own handgun and fired at Cobb, fatally wounding her. She later was pronounced dead at the scene.
Circumstances surrounding the early morning shooting remain under investigation.
Labels: CA, domestic dispute
3/3/07
Windham, New Hampshire
From the North Andover (MA) Eagle-Tribune of March 2, 2007
Man released after shooting stepbrotherFrom the North Andover Eagle-Tribune of April 14, 2007
A family argument escalated into violence Thursday, when one stepbrother shot another in the middle of the day.
David Richardson, 52, went to Windham Auto Body around 10:40 a.m. Thursday, got into a scuffle with his stepbrother, Frank Meisel, and returned to his home about a half-mile away before a pair of officers arrived, said Windham police Capt. Carl Wagner.
About an hour later, Richardson returned to start another confrontation with his stepbrother, Frank Meisel, according to police. Meisel, 43, fired a single shot into the left side of Richardson's chest with a .38-caliber revolver, police said.
Police elaborated on the initial scuffle yesterday as they continued their investigation into the shooting.
"There was some kind of brotherly, physical confrontation and there was some damage done on the property, but he wasn't concerned with that," Wagner said of Meisel. "He just didn't want him (Richardson) on the property."
The two were arguing over a family-related matter, Wagner said.
Police said they received a call from a woman about the shooting, but they refused to elaborate.
Richardson remains in critical-but-stable condition at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital in Boston. He underwent surgery Thursday night.
Meisel is free on personal recognizance and is due in court April 2. Based on what police have learned so far, Wagner said there was no need to hold Meisel.
"As the investigation continues, charges could be upgraded or reduced," Wagner said. "We still have to cross the t's and dot the i's on some things."
Police recovered the revolver when they encountered Meisel at the garage, Wagner said. Meisel legally kept the handgun at the business, located at 47 Roulston Road.
When police officers arrived after the first call from the garage, Richardson had already made it back to his home about a half-mile away at 22 Roulston Road. The officers warned Richardson that he would be arrested for trespassing if he went back to the garage, Wagner said.
A search warrant for the garage, which included a police affidavit detailing evidence gathered so far in the case, has been sealed by a judge.
Police: Shooter acted in self-defense
Prosecutors dropped charges against Frank Meisel, accused of shooting his stepbrother, saying he acted in self-defense when he fired his .38-caliber revolver into the chest of David Richardson.
Richardson, 53, went to Meisel's business, Windham Autobody at 47 Roulston Road, threatening to hurt him about 10 a.m. on March 1, police said.
Meisel, 43, of Cluff Road in Salem fired his weapon after Richardson had swung a large bat at his head and threatened to hurt him, said Rockingham County Attorney James Reams. Police had charged Meisel with misdemeanor simple assault after the altercation, saying they would either upgrade or drop the charge, based on the investigator's conclusion.
"Everything we had was consistent with self-defense," Reams said yesterday.
Police had been to the garage hours before the shooting when Richardson, who lived about a half-mile away, showed up drunk and got into a fight with Meisel. Neither of the men were seriously hurt or wanted to press charges.
Police told Richardson not to return to the garage, but he showed up a couple of hours later, armed with a large club. The arguments were the result of Richardson wanting to borrow money, police said. Meisel's account of what happened was supported by his bookkeeper, who saw both fights between the men, according to police.
Meisel's lawyer, Don Blaszka, said yesterday he was pleased with the Police Department's decision to drop the case.
"I always felt my client was defending himself," Blaszka said. "I feel this is a vindication for him so he can continue with his business. Obviously, based on the information collected by police and witness statements, my client's actions were justified."
One aspect that delayed the investigation was Richardson's lack of cooperation, Reams said. Richardson has been released from the hospital, but refused to release his medical records to authorities or cooperate with the investigation, according to police.
"There was a couple of minor loose ends we would have liked to have wrapped up," Reams said. "We knew Mr. Richardson was released from the hospital, but we don't know how badly he was injured. Given what we know so far, it wasn't a worthwhile pursuit of police resources."
Labels: domestic dispute, NH
3/2/07
Cedar Lake, Indiana
From the Merrillville Post-Tribune of March 2, 2007
Cedar Lake homicide case closed
Next stop: Grand Jury
The investigation is closed on Ronald Thomas's shooting death, which stunned Cedar Lake Jan. 31.
Charges will not be filed against Gerald Burkland, the man who pulled the trigger, although the case will be sent to a grand jury.
"I'll accept it as the way the judicial system works," Burkland said at his home. "That's fine with me."
He declined to comment further.
Cedar Lake Police Chief Roger Patz said charges have not been filed because he believes Burkland killed Thomas in self-defense. Patz said the decision not to file charges was made after consultation with the Lake County Prosecutor's Office.
Patz said Thomas broke into Burkland's residence before 8 a.m. Jan. 31 after he pried open a screen. Burkland was inside the residence, as was Susie Buck, Thomas' girlfriend and mother of their two children.
Burkland told police the two men started arguing, then Thomas lunged at him with a knife. Burkland maintains he fired at Thomas in self-defense.
The blast struck Thomas at close range, piercing his abdomen, Patz said. Thomas was pronounced dead later that morning at St. Anthony Medical Center in Crown Point.
Burkland fled the scene. He was found in a Merrillville hotel four days later, and Cedar Lake detectives interviewed him the following day.
After Thom-as was shot, Buck stayed behind and called 911. She could not be reached for comment.
Patz said they suspected self-defense all along, observing the pried-open window and a knife in close proximity to Thomas' body when they arrived at the crime scene. Evidence from the Lake County Crime Lab confirmed their beliefs, he said.
Nevertheless, Patz says, because the case is so serious, it's only appropriate it be referred to a grand jury.
"We don't want to leave any stone unturned here," Patz said.
Diane Poulton, spokeswoman for the Lake County Prosecutor's Office, said the jury, comprised of six people, will determine whether to indict Burkland. No date has been set for the grand jury to deliberate this case, Poulton said.
Marco Manzie, Thomas' uncle, said the decision to present the issue to a grand jury "doesn't sound right."
"We're hoping we'll get down to the truth," Manzie said. "We're uncomfortable that the police are taking Jerry Burkland's side of the story."
Labels: domestic dispute, home invasion, IN
2/23/07
Elkins, West Virginia
From Clarksburg’s WBOY.com of February 19, 2007
Randolph County Man Charged With Murder Has Bond HearingFrom Clarksburg’s WBOY.com of February 22, 2007
Police say Steven Dan Snider fatally shot Leslie Woodford Friday night.
A Randolph County judge has set bond for a man accused of killing another man during a domestic dispute.
Steven Snider, 49, is in the Tygart Valley Regional Jail his bond has been set at 250 thousand dollars, cash only. Sheriff's deputies say Snider shot Leslie Woodford after a domestic dispute Friday night.
According to sheriff's deputies, Woodford was finalizing a messy divorce with his ex-wife.
Shortly after 9:30 p.m. Friday, deputies Mark T. Brady and Richard T. Swisher responded to a 911 call at a home on Sully Road near Alpina.
Woodford went to his ex-wife's father's home, kicked in the front door and pointed a handgun at the 76-year-old man.
Woodford was threatening to kill the family, authorities said.
The father attempted to defend himself with a 12-gauge shotgun.
Woodford confronted his ex-wife, but left the scene before authorities arrived.
Brady said Woodford then went to the South Henry Avenue home of Steven Dan Snider, who had been dating Woodford's ex-wife.
Deputies said Woodford busted down his door and shot at Snider.
Snider fired back and fatally wounded Woodford. Woodford was airlifted to Ruby Memorial Hospital in Morgantown, where he was pronounced dead.
Snider is now charged with second degree murder.
Both incidents are under investigation by the Elkins Police Department, the Randolph County Sheriff's Department and the West Virginia State Police.
Case Dismissed Against Randolph County Man Charged in Fatal Shooting
Evidence indicated the shooting was self defense.
A Randolph County magistrate has closed the case against Steven Snider in the shooting death of Leslie Woodford.
Authorities arrested Snider after police said Woodford burst into his home, tried to shoot him and Snider fired back.
At that hearing, Randolph County Prosecutor Frank Bush moved to dismiss the case against Snider, saying the evidence indicates the shooting was done in self defense.
That case has raised questions about what is self defense.
State law doesn't specifically address the issue so how do you know when you can defend yourself with deadly force?
Bush said its a difficult claim since each and every case is different.
The magistrate granted the state's request to dismiss the case without prejudice. Snider's attorneys says the prosecutor made the right choice based on the evidence.
An amendment to the West Virginia state code covering home protections is making its way through the state Legislature.
The amendment outlines reasons to allow the use of deadly force.
1. The person against whom the defensive force was used was in the process of unlawfully and forcefully entering, or had unlawfully and forcibly entered, a dwelling, residence or occupied vehicle, or if that person had removed or was attempting to remove another against that person's will from the dwelling, residence or occupied vehicle.
2. The person who uses defensive force knew or had reason to believe that an unlawful and forcible entry or unlawful and forcible act was occurring or had occurred.
From a police perspective, investigating a shooting, self defense or not, still must be treated as a crime.
Right now that bill is making its way through the House Judiciary Committee. Snider has been released from jail and is back home.
Labels: domestic dispute, home invasion, senior, WV
2/8/07
Sharpsburg, Georgia
From Atlanta’s 11Alive.com of February 8, 2007
Man Critical After Killing Intruder
A Coweta County man was hospitalized in critical condition with a gunshot wound to the chest after killing the intruder who shot him early Thursday morning.
Police said the two men were part of a domestic dispute that erupted in gunfire in the normally quiet Coweta County neighborhood. According to investigators, the victim, Kevin Went, and his girlfriend were inside the home on St. James Place near Sharpsburg at the time of a violent intrusion. The girlfriend's ex-boyfriend kicked down the door about 5:30 a.m. with a gun in hand. Both men started to argue and both started shooting.
"The old boyfriend followed her here, kicked the door in, forced his way in, confronted the new boyfriend with a firearm and they shot each other," said Major James Yarbrough of the Coweta County Sheriff's Office.
A neighbor said bullets were flying from the home. "I could hear him kick in the door and he shot and I think some of the bullets came out through the wall over there," said Curtis Scruggs.
The ex-boyfriend, who was identified as Vance Tanner, died at the scene. The homeowner was airlifted to Atlanta Medical Center in critical condition.
Labels: domestic dispute, GA, home invasion
1/30/07
Oak Lawn, Illinois
From Tinley Park’s Daily Southown of January 30, 2007
Woman released; no charges in OL shooting
An Oak Lawn woman who shot and killed her estranged husband was arguing with him about who should pay for her daughter’s braces moments before she opened fire, police said Tuesday.
But Donna Miranda, 51, walked free after Cook County state’s attorneys decided she might have acted in self-defense and would not be prosecuted.
Juan Miranda, 48, was shot six times about 8 a.m. Sunday in the basement of his wife’s home in the 9100 block of South Komensky Avenue.
He was declared dead at the scene two hours later, and his death was ruled a homicide Monday by the Cook County medical examiner’s office.
Donna Miranda — who filed a domestic-abuse complaint against her husband last year and obtained a protection order against him in 2002 — said she fired to save her own life, said Keith Raspovich, Oak Lawn chief of detectives.
“She said they were arguing about who should pay for her daughter’s braces when he tried to choke her,” Raspovich said.
Cook County state’s attorney’s spokeswoman Marcy Jensen said “based on a review of all the facts, prosecutors found insufficient evidence to meet the burden of proof.”
Labels: domestic dispute, IL
1/15/07
Wilmington, North Carolina
From Wilmington’s WECT.com of January 15, 2007
Late Night Shooting Leaves One Man Dead
A man is dead after a late night shooting on McRae Street in Wilmington. His family says the death was senseless.
Derrick "Dooby" Marshall, Jr. was shot to death after an apparent argument over a handgun. It happened on the 500 block of McRae Street in an abandoned building.
Friends and family of Marshall say the man who shot him was his cousin's husband.
Police say it was self defense, and no charges have been made against the shooter.
One eyewitness and close friend of Marshall's says he was an all around good guy.
An autopsy will be done later this weekend, and police say the case is still under investigation.
Labels: domestic dispute, NC
12/30/06
Ross County, Ohio
From the Columbus Dispatch of December 30, 2006
Man’s shooting was self-defense, grand jury says
Ross County father killed his daughter’s boyfriend Dec. 24
A Ross County grand jury did not indict a man accused of killing his daughter’s boyfriend, saying he acted in self-defense when he shot the man who had threatened his family.
Acting Ross County Prosecutor Michael Ater said he will drop murder charges against Billy E. Moore, 46, who was arrested shortly after the Christmas Eve shooting.
Moore was accused of shooting Bradley Cassidy, 42, once in the chest. He was released from jail yesterday, Ater said.
At home yesterday, Moore said he was grateful that the charges were dropped but was truly sorry for what happened.
"It’s a terrible situation. I’d really like to apologize to (Cassidy’s) mom, his family and the neighbors," he said.
Authorities got a 911 call on Christmas Eve from Moore’s daughter, saying that she and Cassidy, with whom she had a relationship, had argued and that he threatened to burn down Moore’s home near Bainbridge. He also threatened to kill her and their young child, Ater said.
The woman ran to Moore’s house and called her father. But when Moore got to his house, the place was ransacked and he couldn’t find his daughter, Ater said.
Moore and his wife went to look for her. As they drove, Cassidy pulled his vehicle onto the road and blocked Moore’s path.
That’s when Cassidy told Moore that he had just killed Moore’s daughter and grandchild and had thrown their bodies into a ravine, prosecutors said.
Cassidy began lunging at Moore with a metal baseball bat, and Moore ran back to his truck and grabbed a pistol.
Moore told Cassidy to get away but Cassidy kept swinging at him. Moore then shot Cassidy once in the chest, prosecutors said. Cassidy was pronounced dead at Greenfield Area Medical Center.
Moore’s daughter and grandchild were found at a relative’s house and were not injured, Ater said.
"It was a very bad situation that I got put into, and I didn’t know what to do," Moore said. He said he was thankful that his daughter and 1-year-old grandson were not hurt but knows that difficult times lie ahead, especially for his grandson.
"Someday, I’m going to have to explain that I shot his father. I don’t know how I’m going to do that," Moore said.
Ater said the initial murder charge was "absolutely appropriate" based on the information authorities had at the time.
Labels: domestic dispute, OH
12/29/06
Billings, Montana
From the Billings Gazette of December 29, 2006
Man allegedly shot by son
A Hanna man remained in critical condition Thursday after his 17-year-old son allegedly shot him twice in the chest.
Authorities said the teenager shot Chuck Combs with a .22-caliber rifle on Dec. 22. Carbon County prosecutor David Clark said the shooting appeared to be in self-defense.
As of Thursday, charges hadn't been filed.
Meanwhile, acting Hanna Marshall Richard Fowler said Thursday that Combs was still in "extremely critical condition" at Wyoming Medical Center in Casper.
Hospital officials declined to disclose any information about Combs.
Fowler said the shooting remained under investigation.
He said the home had a history of family violence, and that Combs' drinking may have contributed to a confrontation.
Labels: domestic dispute, MT
