MARIANNA — One Jackson County man has been hospitalized with a gunshot wound to the chest after an argument over a C.B. radio, according to a Jackson County Sheriff’s Office news release.
Alex Oliver was taken to an area hospital Friday at about 11:45 p.m. from a residence on Willis Road after an argument with John McNeill over a C.B. radio for his 18-wheeler, JCSO reported. Oliver suffered a gunshot wound to the right side of his chest.
Several witnesses told officers that Oliver became aggressive toward McNeill because he would not sell him the radio. As the dispute escalated, Oliver reportedly attempted to strike the 68-year-old McNeill as he was seated in a chair outside. Oliver then went to his vehicle and retrieved a beer bottle and threw it at McNeill, nearly striking him in the head, officers reported.
At some point during the altercation, Oliver made reference to “getting his 9,” which led McNeill to believe that he was referring to a 9mm pistol.
McNeill stated that he had been assaulted by Oliver previously at his own home, on the job where they worked together, and at the location where this incident occurred.
According to McNeill, as Oliver started toward him for the third time, based on the previous incidents, threats made, the reference to the pistol, his inability to see Oliver’s hands in the dark, and their age disparity, he fired once, striking Oliver. The witness statements were consistent with McNeill’s as well as the evidence.
McNeill then went home and contacted law enforcement to meet with them about what had occurred and to turn over the firearm. He was questioned and released pending the outcome of the investigation. Oliver was treated and released from the hospital. The investigation is continuing.