A simple assault charge was lodged in Wednesday’s courtroom fight where the victim’s family member allegedly struck one of the suspects.

Lieutenant Bobby Martin of the Halifax County Sheriff’s Office said James Johnston, 20, allegedly struck Pamela Elrod during her bond hearing. “It’s just a matter of emotions running high,” he said. “They were sitting near each other and he went to where she was and she was struck.”

Martin said Elrod did not require treatment and EMS was not called.

Johnston is the son of Christopher Johnston, who died under unusual circumstances after being transported to Halifax Regional Medical Center from the Carolina Inn in January.

Elrod was charged as an accessory after the fact of involuntary manslaughter along with Kristina Wallace.

Jason Wallace was charged with involuntary manslaughter in the case and his bond hearing was continued. “When you have a family member taken from you emotions can run high,” Martin said.