From Local 3 News: A Bradley County man is behind bars after he shot through a gap in a door at his son on Saturday, March 8.
Deputies from the Hamilton County Sheriff's Office initially responded to Flagpoint Drive in Ooltewah for reports of a disorder with a weapon.
Officials spoke with the son of Richard Lee Thomas, who said his dad appeared to be intoxicated when he rang the doorbell.
A verbal argument ensued between them over a "financial matter involving a vehicle," says the sheriff's office.
The altercation escalated, as Thomas' son told him to leave. The father then pulled out a firearm.
His son told deputies that he struck his father to create distance between them so he could shut the door.
As Thomas' son tried to shut the door, his father shot inside. The round landed on the floor, fortunately not striking anybody.
The son managed to close the door, and his father left the property.
The Bradley County Sheriff's Office later arrested Richard Lee Thomas at his home, then transferred him to the custody of the HCSO.
Thomas is currently booked on the following charges:
The investigation is ongoing, and no further details are available at this time.
Deputies from the Hamilton County Sheriff's Office initially responded to Flagpoint Drive in Ooltewah for reports of a disorder with a weapon.
Officials spoke with the son of Richard Lee Thomas, who said his dad appeared to be intoxicated when he rang the doorbell.
A verbal argument ensued between them over a "financial matter involving a vehicle," says the sheriff's office.
The altercation escalated, as Thomas' son told him to leave. The father then pulled out a firearm.
His son told deputies that he struck his father to create distance between them so he could shut the door.
As Thomas' son tried to shut the door, his father shot inside. The round landed on the floor, fortunately not striking anybody.
The son managed to close the door, and his father left the property.
The Bradley County Sheriff's Office later arrested Richard Lee Thomas at his home, then transferred him to the custody of the HCSO.
Thomas is currently booked on the following charges:
- Attempted first degree murder
- Aggravated domestic assault
- Aggravated assault
- Reckless endangerment
- Aggravated burglary
- Offense of possessing firearm or antique firearm during commission or attempt to commit dangerous felony
The investigation is ongoing, and no further details are available at this time.
Posted in Local News
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