HATBORO —David Guyger was punched and
threatened by a 19-year-old stranger before using his revolver to shoot the
assailant, police said. Officials have ruled Guyger acted in self-defense, and
neither man will be charged in the incident.
Martin Joyce of Jamison survived the shooting,
which occurred Saturday at York and Byberry roads during an argument with
21-year-old Guyger, a Willow Grove resident. Police said that Joyce instigated
the fight and that Guyger's use of the firearm was justified.
Hatboro Police Chief Sam Gallen said Guyger was
stopped at a red light at the intersection about 12:45 a.m. when Joyce
approached his vehicle and asked for change.
The conversation quickly escalated into an
argument, and Joyce reached into Guyger's car and punched him, according to
police.
Joyce then grabbed the driver and threatened to
kill him, police said. Guyger then drew his Taurus handgun and fired once into
Joyce's abdomen. Joyce was taken to Abington Memorial Hospital, treated for his
wound and released later that day.
Montgomery County District Attorney Bruce
Castor said Guyger is licensed to carry the gun and his weapon is properly
registered. He added that Guyger had no chance of retreating from his attacker
because the initial punch lifted his foot off the clutch, stalling his car.
"This guy called for police, did
everything he was supposed to do before he fired," he said.
Both agencies concluded Joyce was to blame for
the incident, but he will not face any charges.
"I think he could be charged with simple
assault, but I think getting shot is punishment enough," Castor said.
Neither man could be reached for comment.
Guyger was not seriously injured in the fight.
Several motorists witnessed the exchange, but no one else was hurt.
