Man fatally shoots best friend in apparent act of self-defense

Police say shooting victim reportedly pointed rifle at shooter first, investigation ongoing

A man is dead after his roommate/best friend apparently shot him in an act of self-defense near DeKalb, Texas, an authority said.

Bowie County deputies were dispatched to a shooting in the 900 block of County Road 4106 about 11:54 p.m. Sunday, according to Chief Deputy Jeff Neal.

When they arrived they spoke with Nicholas Paul while Life Net personnel provided medical attention to a gunshot victim.

Paul told deputies that Rodney Clay Peters was his best friend and roommate.

Apparently, Peters had been acting "crazy" and was carrying his rifle around with him, according to Neal's press release.

"Mr. Peters then went to Mr. Paul's bedroom and pointed the rifle at him. Mr. Paul grabbed a handgun that was next to his bed and fired at the victim to protect his life. Mr. Peters fell to the ground and Mr. Paul called 911," Neal's press release states.

Paul then performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation on Peters until Life Net personnel arrived and took over for him. Peters did not survive his injuries.

"The evidence collected in reference to this shooting has proven to be consistent with the information gathered from Mr. Paul. No arrest have been made and the investigation is ongoing," Neal states in the release.

The investigating officer is Capt. Robby McCarver.

Upcoming Events