A competition between two friends ended in a fatal shooting when one accidentally fired while they competed to see who could draw his gun faster.
Deputies with the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a Greer home on Sept. 23 over reports of an accidental shooting.
James Turner, 21, told deputies at the scene that after a night of “quick draw” competition, he accidentally chambered a round on the 15th match-ups and blamed “muscle memory” for the mishap that claimed Raelan Hamilton’s life.
Police said that Turner’s statements matched physical evidence and witness testimony. He was charged with involuntary manslaughter.
The victim’s mother said on Facebook that Raelan, 21, was Turner’s best friend.
“My son just became the victim in this horrible tragedy,” she said. “I do not wish any ill will towards this young man. I have no hate in my heart for this young man. He has to live with this forever!”
