WPD: Fatal shooting near Kerr Avenue determined to be self-defense

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) –The Wilmington Police Department has determined a fatal shooting in the woods near Kerr Avenue was an act of self-defense.

According to the WPD Criminal Investigation Division, James Timothy Scott, 36, died from a gunshot wound to the chest. Police say Scott was the initial aggressor. The woman who shot him told investigators she feared for her life after Scott pulled out a knife, advanced toward her, and threatened to kill her.

Officers responded to the reported shooting near the 600 block of Barclay Hills Drive just before 11 a.m. Thursday. Emergency personnel attempted life-saving measures, but Scott died at the scene. Authorities recovered a firearm, a knife, a shell casing, and a cell phone at the scene.

No charges have been filed at this time. The investigation is ongoing.