74-year-old James Allen shot dead after Gaston, NC officials enter his residence to check on his safety
Concerned family members of James Allen, 74 year old retired veteran, called the police and asked for them to check on their relative. Allen had just recently undergone surgery, and his family was concerned for his well-being. Officer Josh Lefevers arrived at the home of James Allen in Gastonia, North Carolina just before midnight on Sunday morning and announced he was entering the residence. When Allen approached him with a gun in hand and allegedly refused to put it down, Lefevers allegedly then shot and killed him.
The officer first went to Allen’s home around 10pm after out of town relatives called the Gastonia Police regarding a welfare check, but there was no answer at the door. According to the Gaston Gazette, officials called nearby hospitals and could not locate Allen. Neighbors said they hadn’t seen him since Friday, but his car was parked at the residence.
Police then called the Gaston Fire Department to assist with what they believed was a possible death inside. The fire department helped Lefevers enter through the rear of Allen’s home thinking he was in need of emergency assistance. Officer Lefevers announced he was entering the house and allegedly saw Allen pointing the gun at him. The elderly man was most likely threatened by the forced entry.
Officer Lefevers has served in the patrol division since 2012, and he is currently on administrative leave. The shooting is currently being investigated.
-Infinite Wiz(@InfiniteWiz)