Prosecutors reviewing case of man’s shooting of stepsons

The State Attorney’s Office is reviewing the case involving a man who shot his 19-year-old and 12-year-old stepsons when the older of the two pulled a gun on him, authorities confirmed Tuesday.

Just before 11:30 a.m. July 6, Bradenton police were called to the 1900 block of Sixth Avenue East to reports of a shooting inside a home. The stepfather, age 36 at the time, immediately identified himself as the shooter to police.

Detectives say the stepfather and his 19-year-old stepson had been arguing when the situation escalated and the teen pulled a gun on him. His stepfather also armed himself, ultimately firing at the teen.

While he intended to shoot the 19-year-old, the 12-year-old also was struck, investigators said.

The case had been under investigation by the Bradenton Police Department, which sent the case to the State Attorney’s Office to be reviewed and determine if any charges are warranted, according to Lt. Brian Thiers.

The stepfather was cooperative with investigators from the onset of the investigation, authorities said. His two stepsons have since been released from hospitals, according to police.

The teen, who was shot in the head and upper body, underwent multiple surgeries and lost an eye as a result of his injuries.

Ironically, the teen’s father, who was sent to prison last year for a murder conviction from Sarasota, also is missing an eye.

The 12-year-old boy was shot in the lower body and treated for his injuries.

This story was originally published October 24, 2017 at 8:52 PM with the headline "Prosecutors reviewing case of man’s shooting of stepsons."