SALISBURY, N.C. – A 19-year-old has been charged with involuntary manslaughter after shooting his friend on Saturday, according to the Rowan County Sheriff’s Office.
Around 5 a.m., deputies responded to a home on Hutchins Way in Salisbury where they found 19-year-old Jayden Hicks suffering from a gunshot wound. Investigators determined that Hicks was shot by his friend, Colton Adkins.
Deputies said Adkins and Hicks were hanging out and listening to music in Adkins’ room when he picked up a rifle in the corner, believing it was unloaded. Adkins told investigators he pointed the weapon in Hicks’ direction and pulled the trigger, authorities said.
Adkins called 911 and performed life-saving measures until first responders arrived. Hicks was pronounced dead at the scene.
Adkins was charged with involuntary manslaughter. He received a $10,000 secured bond and was then transported to the Rowan County Detention Center.
