OLMSTED TOWNSHIP, OH — A 63-year-old father from Olmsted Township is facing murder charges after reportedly shooting his son in what he claims was self-defense during a violent domestic dispute.

The incident occurred around 9 p.m. on Wednesday, June 26, at a home on Homestead Drive. Police were called to the scene by Donald Varga, who reported that his 29-year-old son, Corey Varga, was attacking him with a baseball bat. According to Lt. Scott Sonneborn of the Olmsted Township Police, Donald Varga shot his son in the chest in response to the assault.

Corey Varga was transported to a local hospital, where he later died from his injuries. Upon their arrival, officers found Donald Varga outside the residence and took him into custody without incident. He has since been charged with murder and domestic violence. His bond was set at $1 million, and the case has been forwarded to a Cuyahoga County grand jury for review.

In court, Donald Varga pleaded not guilty. In a surprising turn, the victim’s mother, Denise Varga, spoke on behalf of her husband, requesting a reasonable bond and asserting that the incident was isolated and that he posed no further threat.

Body camera footage from the responding officers captured the immediate aftermath of the shooting, showing Donald Varga with blood on his shirt, pleading with officers to help his son. Despite his efforts, Corey Varga succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.

This tragic event is not the first incident of violence involving Corey Varga. In a 2020 incident at the same residence, Corey Varga, then 25, barricaded himself inside the home and pointed a gun at his brother. The situation led to the evacuation of several homes in the area. Eventually, Corey surrendered peacefully and was transported to a hospital for evaluation.

It’s unclear why the father has been charged in what appears to be a case of self-defense. It is possible that, in the shock and grief of having shot his own son, Donald Varga made statements that were interpreted as guilt by responding officers. This case underscores the importance of knowing how to respond when involved in a self-defense situation.

This tragic incident highlights the complexities and emotional toll of domestic disputes, particularly when they escalate to violence. It also serves as a reminder of the critical importance of handling the aftermath of a self-defense situation carefully to avoid legal complications.