A Scotland Neck man has been charged in a murder that occurred outside a residence on Galberry Road this morning.

Alden Joseph Ruth Jr., 18, has been jailed without the opportunity for bond and has a September 19 court date.

Lieutenant Scott Hall of the Halifax County Sheriff’s Office said James Edward Cotton III, 20, was shot and killed around 4 a.m. after words were exchanged between the two men.

The shooting occurred as they were leaving the Galberry Road residence in the Scotland Neck area and began arguing, Hall said in a news release. Cotton was shot with a handgun and later died from his injuries.

It is unclear what the argument was about and, according to Chief Deputy Wes Tripp, detectives R. Somogyi, R. Rooks and J. Sealey, along with Hall and Major Bruce Temple were able to receive good leads and began working them immediately, which resulted in the arrest of Ruth.

Tripp also sheriff’s office continues to investigate and is seeking anyone who may have additional information.

Those with information are encouraged to call the sheriff’s office at 252-583-8201 or Crimestoppers at 252-583-4444.