Sawmills shooting justified as self-defense by District Attorney David Learner

SAWMILLS, NC (February 14, 2018)…A Caldwell County man has been cleared of any wrongdoing in a shooting that led to the death of a 31-year-old Hudson man.

After carefully reviewing the evidence, witness statements and investigative findings of the Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office, District Attorney David Learner determined the actions that led to the death of Daniel Lashawn Wright were justified as a measure of self-defense from a physical assault, and no charges will be filed.

“I have personally reviewed the investigation in its entirety and determined that the victim of the assault clearly acted in self-defense,” Learner said.

On Feb. 8, 2018, Wright engaged in an assault of a physically handicapped family member at the residence of the assault victim. After being knocked to the floor while being attacked by Wright, the victim fired one shot from a 9-millimeter handgun that struck and killed his assailant.

Members of the Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office and Caldwell County Emergency Medical Services arrived within five minutes but were unable to revive Wright.

Findings from the preliminary autopsy and toxicology report indicated the presence of methamphetamine and MDMA in Wright’s bloodstream, Methamphetamine and a hypodermic syringe also were found in his pocket.

“The Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office did a phenomenal job investigating this case,” Learner said. “They were very thorough and professional in their investigation.”

Learner and Caldwell County Sheriff Alan Jones authorized the immediate release of the handgun to its owner following a review of the case.