MICANOPY, FL – An elderly man in Florida finds himself in legal trouble after allegedly shooting at his late ex-wife’s family amid a disagreement over her estate. John Morgan Webb, 81, faces charges of attempted murder and aggravated assault following the incident at a home in Micanopy, approximately 10 miles south of Gainesville.
According to authorities, Webb’s ex-wife’s daughters and son-in-law had arrived at the property to prepare it for sale. They were taken aback to find Webb’s vehicle already parked in the driveway, as they believed he was not entitled to be there since their mother’s death.
In a dramatic turn, one of the daughters began filming with her cell phone as they entered the home and called out for Webb. Inside, they reportedly encountered him in the living room, where he allegedly brandished a revolver and discharged a shot into the ceiling, prompting them to flee.
As they retreated to their car, Webb purportedly shouted, “No, don’t move, you got to die first,” before chasing after them and firing several more shots at the vehicle. Remarkably, none of the family members were hit, though the car was immobilized after bullets penetrated the engine, as noted in the arrest affidavit.
Webb did not remain at the scene, but authorities later apprehended him. Under interrogation, Webb claimed his late ex-wife’s family had harassed him, insisting he had only intended to intimidate them with warning shots, according to police statements.
However, deputies determined Webb’s actions were both dangerous and reckless, suggesting his gunfire could have easily resulted in severe injury or worse. They commented that his behavior represented a depraved disregard for human life, intensifying the charges against him.
Local authorities, including Captain Chris Sims of the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office, stressed the gravity of the situation, emphasizing the potential for tragedy had circumstances been slightly different. Sims remarked on the narrow escape for the victims, asserting the lack of age restrictions on poor decision-making or violent actions.
Currently held in the Alachua County Jail without bond, Webb awaits further legal proceedings as the community comes to terms with the day’s unexpected events.