Laurelville, Ohio – A tense situation unfolded on July 11, 2024, on Moccasin Road, resulting in the arrest of James William Morton following reports of gunfire within a residence. Responding to a distress call, the Deputy arrived at the scene to find, the caller, detailing a frightening ordeal involving Morton.
According to the victim Morton exhibited concerning behavior, including sweating and altered speech, prompting her to inquire about his well-being. A misunderstanding escalated when Morton allegedly discharged several rounds from a handgun toward her son, who was present in the kitchen and living room area. In response, she intervened, disarmed Morton, and safely secured the firearm, later handing it over to a neighbor for safekeeping.
A Witness corroborated his mother’s account, describing Morton’s erratic conduct and the subsequent firing of warning shots in his direction. Thankfully, no injuries were reported despite the gravity of the incident.
Deputy, in his official capacity, transported Morton to the Pickaway County Jail. During transport, Morton reportedly admitted to consuming a substantial amount of hand sanitizer with salt, impacting his judgment and actions that evening. Morton confessed to firing warning shots and expressed intentions that could have led to more severe consequences had mom had not intervened.
The incident drew additional witnesses, who completed Victim Rights forms due to their presence during the ordeal. Law enforcement documented the scene with photographs of the handgun, bullet holes in the ceiling, and debris scattered across the kitchen table. Evidence collected included the Smith & Wesson M&P .22 caliber handgun, a 10-round magazine, and a knife found at the scene.
Morton has been charged with Domestic Violence, Aggravated Menacing, Having Weapons under disability, and using weapons while intoxicated.
