The charge that an attempt was made to reportedly to fire the weapon was in the assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill count lodged against Dillon Tyler Irby, 18, of Roanoke Rapids.
The gun misfired, Smith said. “If it went off it could have been a homicide. That's why there's the attempted murder charge.”
To Smith, the case is discouraging. “I just think when people have differences, they should seek legal means if they can't solve it in a respectful, safe way.”
Captain M.D. DeLoatch Sr. of the sheriff's office said it is believed the gun may have jammed. “He tried to fire it.”
DeLoatch said it is believed pranks involving spraying ketchup and sauces on cars eventually led to the confrontation at the boat landing.
The case also reportedly involves the threat of throwing a book bag in the river. It was at the river where Irby allegedly pointed a gun at the victim and threatened to kill him.
Detective P. Jacobs also charged Irby with assault by pointing a gun and communicating threats.
