http://www.southeasttexaslive.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=16287986&BRD=2287&PAG=461&dept_id=512589&rfi=6
03/12/2006
Pit bull conflict ends in man's death
By ROLANDO GARCIA , The Enterprise
A Hardin County man was shot to death outside his trailer Saturday morning during a confrontation over his pit bull.
The shooting occurred around 10:30 a.m. at Bubba's Trailer Park on the 9800 block of Village Creek Road near Silsbee, said Chief Sheriff Deputy Kenny Davenport.
Justin Craig Slider, 19, was rushed to Christus St. Elizabeth Hospital in Beaumont where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
The confrontation began when Lonnie Brown, the owner of the trailer park, approached Slider's trailer to talk about the pit bull, Davenport said.
The dog, which was on a chain, lunged at him. Brown, 65, shot the dog with his handgun after he was bitten a few times, Davenport said.
Then, Slider came out of the trailer and the two got into a physical altercation.
During the fight, Slider, who did not have a weapon, was shot in the head and stomach.
Brown had a gunshot wound to his left hand. He was also taken to the hospital and was treated for his injuries. At press time, Davenport said Brown is still in the hospital.
Slider hailed from the Texarkana area and had only lived at the trailer park for a few weeks, Davenport said.
Investigators are still collecting evidence and witness statements and have not decided whether to file criminal charges.
rgarcia@beaumontenterprise.com
(409) 833-3311 ext. 414