CHARLESTON, WV —In the early hours of Thursday, August 8, a violent altercation in Charleston, West Virginia, resulted in the fatal shooting of 32-year-old Chrishawn Perkins by his 19-year-old girlfriend, who claims she acted in self-defense. The incident occurred at a residence on Grace Avenue, where the couple had been invited by an acquaintance.
The Charleston Police Department reported that the couple became involved in a heated argument around 1 a.m. after Perkins accused his girlfriend of stealing. The situation quickly escalated when Perkins began physically assaulting her, allegedly stomping on her ribcage and head, and punching her in the arms and lips. The violence continued as Perkins reportedly grabbed a firearm and threatened to kill her multiple times.
During the altercation, Perkins began fighting with the acquaintance who lived at the residence. Seizing an opportunity, the girlfriend picked up the firearm and shot Perkins, who later succumbed to his injuries at a local hospital.
After the shooting, the girlfriend attempted to perform CPR on Perkins before emergency responders arrived. She was also taken to the hospital for treatment of her injuries and is reported to be in stable condition.
In an interview with local news, the girlfriend reflected on the incident, stating, “I just don’t feel scared anymore, but I wish things didn’t go the way they did.” She also mentioned that the firearm had a “hair trigger” and that it went off with minimal pressure.
The case is currently under review by the Kanawha County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office to determine whether any charges will be filed. As of now, no charges have been brought against the woman.
This tragic event highlights the importance of understanding and practicing firearm safety, especially in high-stress situations. If you own or handle a firearm, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with its mechanics, including the sensitivity of the trigger. In moments of extreme stress, even a slight movement can lead to unintended consequences. Proper training and awareness can help ensure that firearms are used safely and effectively, particularly in self-defense situations.
