A district attorney in Eastern Carolina has ruled that the fatal shooting at a Greenville funeral home was an act of self-defense, and no charges will be filed. The shooting occurred during an argument, leading to the death.

GREENVILLE, NC (2-minute read) — In a self-defense incident that unfolded at a Greenville funeral home, the Eastern Carolina district attorney has ruled that no charges will be filed in the fatal shooting of Terence Rountree Jr. This decision comes after local police determined that the shooting was a justified act of self-defense.

The event took place last Friday at the Rountree Family Mortuary, located on Dickinson Avenue. Terence Rountree, a 34-year-old man, was shot during an altercation that occurred within the family business. According to reports, the confrontation escalated into violence, resulting in a family member fatally shooting Rountree. He was quickly transported to ECU Health Medical Center, where he succumbed to his injuries.

Greenville Police Department spokespersons explained that the shooting stemmed from an argument between family members. Although the details of the altercation are not fully disclosed, investigators concluded that the shooter acted in self-defense during the confrontation. Consequently, the district attorney’s office opted not to pursue charges against the family member responsible for the shooting.

While self-defense can be a legally justifiable response, it is always critical to prioritize de-escalation and non-violent solutions whenever possible.

This incident serves as a somber reminder of the emotional and physical risks that come with family disagreements, especially when firearms are involved. It underscores the importance of maintaining a calm mindset during conflicts and understanding when the use of force is appropriate.

Safety Tip: Always take steps to resolve conflicts peacefully and avoid situations that may escalate into violence. If you own a firearm, ensure it is securely stored and only used when absolutely necessary in self-defense.