PENSACOLA, FL – A 27-year-old man was arrested Saturday after authorities say a dispute over a broken television ended with the fatal shooting of his uncle inside a Pensacola home.
O’Neal Robert Matthew Thompson faces a murder charge in the death of his uncle, Thaddeus Williamson, 47, following a heated argument that escalated into violence. Deputies with the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of gunfire on Lakewood Road shortly after noon on July 5.
The emergency call came from Thompson’s grandmother, who told dispatchers her grandson had shot her son during a fight and fled the scene. She described Thompson’s appearance and clothing for responding deputies.
Law enforcement officers located Thompson just a few blocks from the site of the incident. Upon his apprehension, officials said Thompson claimed the shooting was an act of self-defense, alleging that Williamson had attacked him inside the home. Officers reported finding a Taurus G2c 9mm handgun on Thompson when he was searched.
Medical responders found Williamson suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was transported to a nearby hospital, where doctors pronounced him dead a short while later.
Detectives interviewed Thompson after he was taken into custody. According to investigators, Thompson said the argument began when his uncle tried to give him a television that didn’t work. The conversation turned physical, leading Thompson to step outside and call his mother for advice. He then re-entered the house, where he claimed Williamson continued to act aggressively.
Thompson told police he exposed his concealed firearm in an attempt to calm his uncle, but Williamson allegedly challenged him. Fearing for his safety, Thompson said he fired his weapon multiple times, although he was unclear on how many shots were fired.
When questioned further about the threat he believed he faced, Thompson admitted he was uncertain if Williamson was armed, but said he didn’t know what his uncle might do.
Thompson’s grandmother, who witnessed the confrontation, told authorities her grandson arrived at the home in an angry state, initiating the conflict with Williamson. She reported breaking up the initial scuffle before hearing several gunshots as she turned away. Turning back, she allegedly saw Thompson standing with a gun and Williamson on the ground.
Thompson was booked into the Escambia County Jail and is being held without bond. He is scheduled for arraignment on July 25, according to court records.
The investigation into the circumstances of the shooting remains ongoing. No other injuries were reported.