In a shocking turn of events, a celebrated North Carolina horse trainer, John Victor Russell, 75, is facing serious criminal charges following the accidental fatal shooting of a horse during a dispute with his son. The incident, as reported by the New York Times, occurred during a heated argument between Russell and his son. Russell allegedly discharged a firearm, intending to shoot his son, but instead struck the horse the son was riding. The horse, a Grand Prix jumper named Franklin's Tower, tragically had to be euthanized due to the severity of its injuries. Thankfully, the son escaped the incident unharmed.

Russell, recently honored as "Horseman of the Year" and inducted into the Carolinas Show Hunter Hall of Fame, is now charged with assault on a person with a deadly weapon with intent to kill and felony animal cruelty causing the death of an animal. He has been released on a $90,000 bond and intends to plead not guilty at his court appearance scheduled for July 19th.

John Victor Russell (Polk County Sheriff's Office)

This incident has deeply affected the North Carolina equestrian community where Russell, known as Vick, is a prominent figure. The Tryon International Equestrian Center & Resort, where Russell and his family are well-regarded, recently featured him on their website as a "local legend." The son's former wife, Suzanne Feagan, expressed the family's shock and heartbreak in an interview with the New York Times, stating that such an action was completely unexpected.

Law enforcement officials determined that the shooting occurred during a heated argument between Russell and his son. Feagan witnessed the incident while working on the farm and recounted seeing Russell arrive in his truck with a gun. She then heard shouting and witnessed Russell shooting at his son, who was mounted on the horse at the time.

Polk County Sheriff's Office Cruisers (Polk County Sheriff's Office)

Feagan expressed concern for Russell's well-being, noting that he hadn't been taking care of himself lately. The son's fiancé, Kristen Cox, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the family's love and concern for Russell and their desire to ensure he receives the necessary support.

Crime Scene Tape (iStock)

One of Russell's lawyers, Jennifer Labbe, urged caution against premature conclusions, suggesting the possibility of an accidental discharge. She emphasized Russell's love for his children and horses, portraying the event as a tragic accident.