A Washington landlord who shot and killed his tenant earlier this month will not face charges, the Washington County District Attorney announced Tuesday.
DA Jason Walsh said the landlord, who has not been named, was acting in self-defense.
36-year-old Leonard Williams was shot and killed on Sept. 1 on Walnut St.
Investigators say the landlord went to Williams' residence to post a notice of arrears. Williams grabbed the notice, threw it on the ground and pursued the landlord to his car.
While the landlord was in his car, investigators say, Williams fought with the landlord and tried to open the car door. At that point, the landlord fired his legally owned gun at Williams.
Williams died on scene.
Walsh said the landlord stayed at the scene and told investigators he was in fear for his life. Multiple witnesses also corroborated his statement.
"All evidence suggests and shows that Mr. Williams was the aggressor, pursued the actor, pursued him into his vehicle and the actor fired in self-defense," Walsh said. "There will be no charges filed against the actor in this case. This is a justified homicide in self-defense under Pennsylvania law."
Williams' family stood outside the Washington County DA's office Tuesday, telling reporters they believe the situation went too far and charges should be filed.
"If this man had time to get in his vehicle and get his gun, he had time to start his vehicle and drive away," said Nicole Grayson, Williams' sister-in-law.
They say they plan to protest and take legal action.
"I lost my best friend," said Leonard Williams Sr., the victim's father. "When they told me this today, it just sunk my heart."