SLED asked to review West Columbia shooting

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — The State Law Enforcement Division is being asked to review a shooting in West Columbia earlier this year that was ruled a justifiable homicide.

The State newspaper reported Saturday (http://bit.ly/pVNqfj ) that West Columbia Police Maj. Jackie Brothers said the department asked for the review after the victim’s family questioned the decision not to file charges.

Richard Williams of West Columbia shot and killed 44-year-old Mark Howard on February 14. Howard was suspected of breaking into Williams’ truck and stealing some money. Williams told police he thought Howard had pointed a weapon at Williams.

Howard’s sister, Peggy Lewis, says she doesn’t think someone should be able to shoot someone they think is breaking into a truck.

South Carolina law allows people to defend their homes, vehicles and businesses from intruders.

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Information from: The State, http://www.thestate.com