SPRING HILL, FL – A Pasco County man is facing attempted murder charges after allegedly firing nearly 30 gunshots at his wife and two others who were trying to make sure she returned home safely following a separation prompted by his history of violence, according to authorities.
Francis Edward Tully Jr., 58, was arrested late on July 15 after deputies responded to reports of gunfire on the 18000 block of Deason Drive in Spring Hill. Investigators say they found multiple shell casings scattered around the home, some of which were near a shattered front-facing window.
According to the sheriff’s office, Tully’s wife had left their home for several days because she feared for her safety amid ongoing domestic disputes. She told deputies she did not want to return alone, so she arranged for a man and a woman she met outside a store to accompany her to ensure she could enter safely.
When the trio arrived, the woman reportedly approached the front door to announce the wife’s return, while the man and Tully’s wife waited inside a vehicle. It was at this moment that Tully allegedly opened fire, discharging at least four rounds at the woman before sending more gunshots toward the vehicle as the woman fled.
Authorities said Tully ultimately fired a total of 27 shots from different positions inside the home, with several bullets piercing the exterior and nearly striking the people outside. Despite the barrage of gunfire, no injuries were reported.
After his arrest, investigators spoke with Tully, who reportedly claimed he believed his wife had been abducted. He admitted to firing the shots, stating that he wanted to scare her companions and acknowledging the incident caused the trio to flee. However, law enforcement noted inconsistencies in his account regarding whether any of the victims were armed or had attempted to force entry into the residence.
During his calls to 911, Tully allegedly expressed further threats, telling dispatchers he was prepared to use deadly force if the individuals returned to his property.
Both the wife and her companions told deputies they were not armed and had only intended to make sure she returned home without incident. Law enforcement found no evidence to indicate the group posed any threat to Tully.
Tully was taken into custody at the scene and later transported to the Pasco County Jail. He faces three counts of attempted murder and is currently being held on a $450,000 bond. Court records show he has pleaded not guilty and is being represented by a public defender.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities review evidence and statements related to the circumstances leading up to the gunfire.