A family gathering turned deadly when Richard Lee Huguley allegedly shot his stepfather James Barnett in the head while the 69-year-old sat in his front yard chair The shooting happened Thursday evening in the Salem community of Lee County, with deputies arriving at Lee Road 126 at 7:14 p.m. to find Barnett dead from a single gunshot wound to the forehead.

A family gathering turned deadly when Richard Lee Huguley allegedly shot his stepfather James Barnett in the head while the 69-year-old sat in his front yard chair The shooting happened Thursday evening in the Salem community of Lee County, with deputies arriving at Lee Road 126 at 7:14 p.m. to find Barnett dead from a single gunshot wound to the forehead.

Authorities have released more information following the arrest of 51-year-old Huguley, who now faces a murder charge in connection with a deadly shooting that stunned a quiet neighborhood. Investigators say they collected witness accounts, forensic evidence, and ballistic analysis that led them to identify Huguley as the gunman. Court records reveal that the murder weapon was a .38 Special revolver, which officers later recovered as part of the investigation.

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The victim, whose name has not yet been formally released pending family notifications, was seated in his front yard at his residence when the fatal confrontation occurred. Officials confirmed that he never left his chair, struck by gunfire that ended his life before emergency responders could intervene. Neighbors described the scene as surreal, with the victim’s home—once a familiar and welcoming place—transformed into a cordoned-off crime scene as detectives worked into the night.

Huguley was taken into custody without incident and booked into the Lee County Detention Center. He now awaits an Aniah’s Law hearing, where a judge will determine whether he is eligible for bond. Under the law, individuals accused of violent crimes can be held without bond if deemed a danger to the community or a flight risk. Prosecutors are expected to argue strongly against his release, citing the severity of the charge.

The homicide has left the community rattled, with many residents expressing grief and disbelief over the senseless act of violence. Law enforcement officials extended their condolences to the victim’s family and emphasized their commitment to pursuing justice. As Huguley prepares to face the legal system, friends and loved ones of the victim are left mourning a life taken abruptly and unjustly, searching for comfort in memories as they wait for accountability through the courts.

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