Marine Corps News, news from Iraq - Marine Corps Times

Quick Links

http://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/2009/07/marine_lejeune_shooting_070209w/
news/2009/07/marine_lejeune_shooting_070209w

Lejeune Marine charged with murder


By Trista Talton - Staff writer
Posted : Thursday Jul 2, 2009 16:08:32 EDT

JACKSONVILLE, N.C. — A North Carolina-based Marine was charged with murder Thursday after allegedly shooting his roommate a day earlier.

Pvt. Michael Everett Smith, 21, remains in Onslow County jail with no bond. A member of Headquarters Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, at Camp Lejeune, Smith allegedly pointed a semi-automatic handgun at Bryan Joshua Thorkelson, a civilian, and the weapon discharged, firing a bullet into Thorkelson’s head, according to a Jacksonville police news release.

Thorkelson, 19, was transported to Onlsow Memorial Hospital, where he later died.

Investigators say Smith, Thorkelson and several friends were in the kitchen of their Jacksonville home when Thorkelson began showing off a handgun. The weapon was passed around and eventually taken by Smith, police say.

Smith, an automotive organizational mechanic, was busted from lance corporal to private in February, according to a division spokesman. Details about the rank reduction are not available.

Jacksonville police Capt. David Teeter said authorities are not releasing additional details about the shooting pending an investigation.



Contests and Promotions

Service Members Of The Year


promo Nominate Someone Today!
Know someone with whom you are proud to serve? Nominate them for a 2010 Military Times Service Members of the Year Award.

FREE AFG or IRQ I Served Sticker


promo Click here so we can send you a FREE AFG or IRQ I Served sticker

Win The Military Times Fitness Package Sweeptakes


promo ENTER TO WIN...
The Fitness Package includes a Bowflex Classic Home Gym, a push-up and pull-up bar and more to keep you fit and active. Click here for more info.

Marketplace

Mil-Mall


Hooah! Button
Created by an active duty soldier, the Hooah! button is a must-have for anyone who wants to spread the Hooah!

Military Discounts


Save on your purchases!
In honor of your military service, you can find regular and name brand products at a special discount.

Shoplocal

  Shop Local
Local Online Deals
Find the best deals at your local stores.