Photo: Ronald Lee O’Brien
A dispute over fireworks led to a gun being pulled and a Baxter County man being arrested over the holiday weekend. The argument Saturday night resulted in the arrest of 73-year-old Ronald Lee O’Brien.
Baxter County Sheriff John Montgomery says the dispute started when O’Brien became upset when his neighbors on Swallow Lane were shooting fireworks, which were landing in his yard. O’Brien allegedly yelled at the kids, which led to the homeowner from where the fireworks were being discharged to confront O’Brien. During their discussion, it’s alleged O’Brien brandished a handgun and shoved it in the victim’s face. The victim was able to disarm O’Brien who then retreated to his residence. Multiple witnesses corroborated the story, saying O’Brien was the aggressor and put the handgun in the victim’s face.
O’Brien told deputies during the argument with the other homeowner, he had touched his handgun in his pocket because he was scared and was outnumbered by the people at the other residence.
O’Brien is charged with aggravated assault, a felony, and a misdemeanor count of disorderly conduct. His bond is set at $7,500.
WebReadyTM Powered by WireReady® NSI