MOSS POINT, Miss. (AP) - The Jackson County sheriff says a Moss Point man is accused of shooting his nephew in the head while trying to break up a fight between cousins over a pit bull.
Sheriff Mike Ezell says 68-year-old Derek Smith told deputies he was only trying to scare Tyrel Oblol, who was allegedly threatening to stab his cousin with a hunting knife.
Ezell says Smith told investigators the fight began at his house after the dog bit Oblol. He says Oblol left, returning with the knife.
The sheriff quotes Smith as saying he fired the .38-caliber special near Oblol’s head to scare him.
Ezell says Oblol is in USA Medical Center in Mobile, Alabama. His condition is unknown.
Ezell says Smith is awaiting an initial hearing on one count of aggravated assault.
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