Prosecutors: NC man shot victim 45 times

JEFFERSON, N.C. — Prosecutors say a man shot by his best friend 45 times lived through the first 32 shots.

The Winston-Salem Journal reported that prosecutors highlighted the findings of pathologists at Freddie McDowell Jr.’s murder trial Thursday after defense testimony the 24-year-old man suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder.

Authorities say McDowell killed 19-year-old Drew Howell at a mountain home in Wilkes County in June 2006.

McDowell’s attorney says he acted in self-defense and was abused as a child.

But prosecutors showed photos of Howell, who was shot in the eyes, groin and chest with a .38-caliber revolver and pointed out McDowell cleaned the cabin before police arrived.

Prosecutors are expected to give their closing arguments Friday.

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