A man from West Virginia, Chase Fleming, was arrested after allegedly shooting his father in the face with a crossbow and then leading police on a multi-county manhunt through snow-covered terrain, authorities reported.
Incident Details
Chase Fleming, 26, has been charged with malicious assault, with additional charges possible, according to the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department. Authorities say that Fleming entered his father’s home with a preloaded crossbow, and after an argument between the two, he allegedly fired the weapon, hitting his father in the face.
The crossbow bolt reportedly entered just below the victim’s left eye and exited the back of his head. Despite the serious nature of the injury, the victim is currently in stable condition.
Fleeing and Manhunt
After the incident, Fleming fled the scene in his pickup truck but later crashed, prompting a massive police search. Authorities launched an exhausting search, covering roughly seven miles of snowy and wooded terrain in Jackson and Roane counties.
Multiple K-9 units and drones were used in the search effort. After a lengthy foot pursuit, Fleming was found hiding under a rock on a remote ridge and was taken into custody without resistance. He was later admitted to a hospital for observation after deputies attempted to medically clear him for incarceration.
Bond and Further Investigation
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Department has not yet set bond for Fleming, and the investigation is still ongoing. Additional charges may be filed as more information comes to light.
