Antioch, Illinois – A 76-year-old man was arrested after allegedly firing a shotgun near fishermen during a dispute Saturday night.
According to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded shortly after 9 p.m. to the 43000 block of North Lake Avenue in Antioch for a trespassing complaint.
Investigators said the incident involved fishermen in a boat on a private pond owned by Theodore Carter, 76, of Antioch. Carter reported the individuals were not permitted on the property, though they had accessed the pond via a public channel.
Authorities said a verbal dispute escalated between Carter, who remained on land, and the fishermen in the boat. While dispatchers were speaking with the fishermen, a gunshot was heard over the phone, according to the sheriff’s office.
Upon arrival, deputies conducted an investigation. The fishermen reported that during the argument, Carter allegedly retrieved a shotgun and discharged it, with pellets striking the water near their boat.
Officials said Carter admitted to firing the weapon into the air in an attempt to get the individuals to leave. He then voluntarily surrendered the firearm.
The case was reviewed by the Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office, which approved one count of reckless discharge of a firearm. Carter was taken into custody and transported to the Lake County Jail, where he awaits initial court proceedings.
Authorities emphasized that all defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
The incident may raise concerns for local residents and recreational users about safety and property access in shared waterways.
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