Pennsylvania Man Charged with Third-Degree Murder After Shooting Son in Argument Over Family Car

October 2, 2024

PENNSYLVANIA: A disturbing family dispute turned deadly in Pennsylvania when a 67-year-old man shot and killed his 42-year-old son following an argument over the family vehicle. John F. Gustites was arrested and charged with third-degree murder, aggravated assault, and other related offenses.

According to police, the altercation began Saturday morning when Gustites woke up to his son, John A. Gustites, chasing a cat around the house. The situation escalated into an argument when the younger Gustites demanded to use the family car.

In a shocking admission, Gustites told investigators that he retrieved his gun during the argument and shot his son when he allegedly approached him with a screwdriver. However, police noted that the bullet's downward trajectory suggested otherwise.

Gustites claimed he didn't remember pulling the trigger but knew he must have done so, stating that his son made a "gurgling" noise after being shot, indicating he was mortally wounded.

What followed was a 12-hour period during which Gustites watched religious videos, grappling with whether to take his own life. Ultimately, the videos convinced him to call 911 and report the shooting.

Police received the call at approximately 8 p.m. Saturday, 12 hours after the shooting occurred at 8:30 a.m.

Gustites is being held on a $250,000 bond and faces a preliminary hearing on October 10.

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