Verona Man Charged In Stepson's Shooting Death Claims Self-Defense

An elderly man accused of killing his stepson earlier this month in Verona following a family argument will stand trial.

Roy Wright, 62, died after he was shot in the 100 block of Lisa Drive on Aug. 8.

Wright's 83-year-old stepfather, John Latimer, of Verona, is charged in the killing. On Wednesday, he waived his right to a preliminary hearing.

According to the criminal complaint, Wright became enraged when the family confronted him for leaving his two daughters at the Pittsburgh Steelers' preseason game with no way to get home.

Wright allegedly began screaming and was out of control to the point of threatening his elderly mother, who neighbors said is frail and in declining health.

Latimer told police that in order to protect his family, he retrieved a .32 revolver from an upstairs bedroom, but only after the victim stated, "You better shoot me, or I'm going to kill you."

Neighbors who have known the family and Latimer for years said they believe it was a case of self-defense. Defense attorney Donald Turner agrees.

Latimer is charged with homicide in the case. He is currently being held in the Allegheny County Jail.