BELLINGHAM, Wash. (AP) - Authorities say a 21-year-old Bellingham, Washington, man has been charged with first-degree manslaughter, accused in the fatal shooting of a 23-year-old friend who was the son of City Councilman Terry Bornemann.
The Bellingham Herald reports (https://is.gd/MbNxRC ) that Masen Potter made an initial appearance Friday in Superior Court. Bail was set at $100,000.
Police Lt. Bob Vander Yacht says Aaron Bornemann and Potter were hanging out and handling a handgun together at a home Thursday night. He says the two were “engaging in horseplay” when Potter grabbed the handgun, pointed it at Bornemann’s head and pulled the trigger.
According to police, Potter said he thought the gun was not loaded.
Bornemann was taken to PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center, where he died early Friday.
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Information from: The Bellingham Herald, https://www.bellinghamherald.com
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