SMITHFIELD – The Johnston County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a domestic-related shooting that left one man dead. Around 7:00pm Wednesday, deputies and EMS responded to 4552 Stevens Sausage Road, Apartment 10, for a shooting.
Deputies found 42 year-old Stephen Patrick Horton of 1667 Grabtown Road, Smithfield suffering from a gunshot. Soon after arrival, Horton was declared deceased.
The brother of the victim, Joseph Earl Horton, 27, of the Stevens Sausage Road address, was determined to be the shooter. Detectives and Crime Scene investigators responded to investigate.
After interviewing witnesses and processing the scene, authorities consulted with the Johnston County District Attorney’s Office. After consulting with the DA, it was determined no charges would be filed at this time.
Sheriff’s Captain Jeff Caldwell said the fatal shooting remains under investigation. No additional details have been released.
