Avery Nowlin was shot and killed while trying to assault Darius Bush with an unknown weapon Saturday in Snellville, GA.
Gwinnett County police said the incident began when Nowlin approached Bush, who was sitting in a car in the parking lot of a residential neighborhood.
“A physical altercation was initiated by Avery. At some point, Bush’s vehicle stalled, and he wasn’t able to drive off. Bush, fearing for his life, discharged his firearm, striking Nowlin. Officers found a 22-year-old male deceased on the side of the road. At this time, Bush is not being charged with any crimes.” according to Officer Hideshi Valle.
The news release said, “a person is justified in threatening or using force against another when and to the extent that he or she reasonably believes that such threat or force is necessary to defend himself or herself or a third person against such other’s imminent use of unlawful force.”
From the details available, it sounds like Bush attempted to retreat, but Nowlin continued his aggression, and Bush only used deadly force as a last resort.
Some states allow you to “stand your ground,” but is it worth it if other options are available? Shooting someone is not only going to take an emotional toll, but it might drag on forever in the legal system. The only person that will benefit from that is the high-priced attorney you will need for your defense. I, for one, would sleep better knowing I did whatever was possible to avoid using my gun and potentially ending someone’s life.