The Athens Township Police Department has provided more information on the fatal shooting on Vista Drive last week.
According to police, 59-year-old John J. Kraus was shot during a confrontation with his ex-wife’s husband at 3:40 p.m. on Friday.
Police said 57-year-old David Hancock and his wife were visiting the home to see Kraus’ mother.
Witnesses said Kraus violently attacked Hancock without provocation. Kraus allegedly threw him to the floor and repeatedly struck him in the head and face with closed fists.
At one point, Kraus is accused of grabbing a picture frame to strike Hancock in the head.
Hancock told police at that point he thought Kraus intended to kill him.
Hancock, who is licensed to carry a concealed firearm and had it with him during the incident, shot Kraus twice during the attack.
Kraus was transported to the Robert Packer Hospital, where he later passed away from his injuries.
Officers observed a serious head injury and Hancock holding a blood-soaked shirt to his head.
Hancock was treated for head injuries at the hospital.
While the Bradford County Coroner’s Office declared the death a homicide, the Athens Township Police Department referred to the Pennsylvania State Law on self-defense.
The law states “use of deadly force is not justifiable under this section unless the actor believes that such force is necessary to protect himself against death, serious bodily injury, kidnapping or sexual intercourse compelled by force or threat.”
Bradford County District Attorney Richard Wilson told the Morning Times that, at this time, he was declining to file any charges in connection with the shooting.
The Athens Borough and Sayre Borough Police Departments also responded to the scene.
