Police: Son’s fatal shooting of elderly father appears to be self-defense (VIDEO)

Authorities in Alabama are investigating a deadly shooting that occurred during a dispute between two men and their elderly father in Tuscaloosa Monday morning, but preliminary reports indicate the shooting was an act of self-defense.

Tuscaloosa County Metro Homicide Unit assistant commander Capt. Kip Hart said they received a call around 6:45 a.m. about an incident involving a gun at the residence, but a short time later, a second call came in with the caller stating a shooting had occurred.

When police arrived at the home, they found Archie McDaniel, 82, lying in the front yard. He had been shot and was pronounced dead at the scene. McDaniel’s 40-year-old son was suffering from a graze wound to his face and was treated at the scene.

During the investigation, authorities learned the incident started with a confrontation between McDaniel and his 40-year-old son, who lives nearby. McDaniel had thrown several items outside and when his elder son arrived at his father’s home to pick up the items, McDaniel fired a shot at him, causing the graze wound to his face.

The son pleaded with his father to put down the gun, to no avail. In fact, the confrontation escalated, with McDaniel threatening to kill the 40-year-old.

Soon thereafter, McDaniel’s younger son arrived at the home and he also begged his father to put down his weapon. Again, McDaniel ignored his request and threatened to kill the younger son as well.
“Mr. McDaniel turned and pointed the weapon at that son,” Hart said in a press conference. “Unfortunately, the other son had to shoot to protect himself and others at the scene. They tried to de-escalate it as best they could, up to a point where they were not given a choice and had to do what they had to do to protect themselves.”

Hart said they believe McDaniel’s health problems may have come into play. Reports indicate he was suffering from dementia.

At this point, it appears the shooting was justified, Hart said. He does not expect any charges to be filed against the son.

[ WIAT ]