Bradenton men were arguing about a gun. One of them then shot the other, police say

A 20-year-old Bradenton man is charged with attempted murder after he shot another man over an argument about displaying a gun in front of a child, according to the Bradenton Police Department.

Police say Brian Jerome Harvey was arguing with a friend on Tuesday night while sitting in a vehicle in front of an apartment complex. The victim and another man were inside the same vehicle.

Police say Harvey was “actively handling a firearm,” as the victim exited the vehicle to speak to the mother of his infant son. When the victim returned the vehicle, he exchanged words with Harvey about displaying a firearm within eyesight of a child.

The argument escalated and the victim exited the vehicle with Harvey, assuming they were going to fistfight, according to the arrest warrant. Instead, Police say Harvey shot the victim in the upper part of his chest.

The third man physically engaged Harvey as he was attempting to fire more rounds, police say, likely saving the victim’s life.

The victim told police he and Harvey have known one another since childhood.

An arrest warrant was issued Tuesday and Harvey was taken into custody on Wednesday. He was booked into the Manatee County jail on charges of attempted murder and convicted felon in possession of a firearm. He remains in custody on bonds totaling $57,500.