Local News in Brief : Court Date Set for Pair in Shooting Over Snake
Two North Hollywood men who allegedly began shooting at one another Tuesday evening after arguing over how to handle a boa constrictor will be arraigned Friday on charges of attempted murder, Los Angeles police officials said.
The snake’s owner, Michael Fegan, 20, was injured in the shoot-out when a bullet grazed his head and another hit his hand, Detective Ted Ball said. The other suspect, Cleophus Thorps, 47, was not injured in the 5:30 p.m. exchange at an apartment development in the 4000 block of Arch Drive, Ball said.
Fegan is listed in good condition in the jail ward at County-USC Medical Center. Thorps is being held at the North Hollywood Division.
Police are still trying to piece together what prompted the shoot-out, although they are certain the boa constrictor played a large part, the detective said.
The two were apparently handling the snake while lounging around a swimming pool, according to Sgt. Jerry Gilbert. He said Fegan accused Thorps of “squeezing too hard” while handling the creature.
During the argument, Thorps pulled out a handgun and Fegan retreated to his apartment to arm himself, Ball said. The two then began shooting at one another in a hallway, Ball said.
Fegan and Thorps are being held without bail. They will be arraigned in San Fernando Municipal Court, Ball said.
Ball said police do not know what happened to the snake.
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