SOUTHPORT — A Southport man was charged with murder Friday after deputies discovered a woman shot to death on his back porch.
Arrested was Philip Moran of 3609 Conwick Drive in Southport. The Bay County Sheriff’s Office identified the victim as Milissa Moran, 49.
According to the BCSO, deputies responded to a 911 call requesting a welfare check on a residence on Conwick Drive shortly after 4 p.m. Friday.
Deputies responded and were able to see a body on the back porch. They tried to contact Philip Moran, but he refused to answer the door, BCSO said.
After a standoff, deputies were able to enter the home and take Moran into custody without further incident just inside the front door.
Deputies searched the home and found Milissa Moran dead on the back porch. A dog was also found dead on the back porch. Both appeared to have gunshot wounds, BCSO said.
Investigators have learned Philip Moran originally contacted an acquaintance in Rhode Island who then called Moran’s mother. His mother in turn made the 911 call to the BCSO and requested a welfare check at the home.
Moran has been arrested and charged with an open count of murder. He was being booked into the Bay County Jail Friday night.
Authorities remained at the home late Friday night conducting a forensic examination of the scene. The body will be turned over to the Medical Examiner for autopsy.
An earlier version of this story is posted below:
SOUTHPORT -- Deputies responded to a 911 call just after 4 p.m. at 3609 Conwick Road, where they found a woman and a dog dead, according to the Bay County Sheriff’s Office.
A man in the house refused to answer the door. Deputies went inside and detained him for questioning.
The property appraiser’s website says the house belongs to Phillip and Melissa Moran.
Further details are unknown at this time. Check back for details.