Assault Suspect Says He Thought It ‘Legal’ to Use Gun to ‘Get Answers’

In a dramatic turn of events unfolding in Florida, a 76-year-old man shot a woman amidst an alleged attempt to extract unspecified information. The incident spiraled further when the woman’s husband intervened, delivering a physical retaliation against the assailant.

Michael Phillips now faces charges of aggravated battery following the altercation that occurred on a Saturday evening, as reported by Insidelake.com.

The sequence of events began around 7 p.m. when Phillips approached Denise Rosa while she was outside her home, tending to her dog. Rosa recounted to deputies how she extended an invitation to Phillips to join her inside for a card game. After securing the dog, she made her way indoors.

Upon entering, Rosa heard Phillips utter a cryptic warning, “Don’t trust what she says.” Seeking clarification, she questioned his statement. The situation escalated as Phillips responded with vulgar language and brandished a firearm.

A struggle ensued, during which Rosa sustained a gunshot wound to her forearm. The commotion drew the attention of her husband, who promptly intervened, overpowering Phillips in a physical confrontation and disarming him.

Both Rosa and Phillips were subsequently airlifted to a hospital to receive treatment for their injuries, bringing a temporary pause to the unexpected and violent encounter.

Phillips admitted to deputies taking the gun out of his pocket and saying it just went off. He said he had “questions” and thought using the gun was a legal way for him to “get answers.”

The affidavit does not say what “questions” he had.

Phillips remains behind bars on a $25,000 bond and is due in court on November 10, jail records show.

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