A tragic incident unfolded at a remote lake house near Lake Cumberland, Kentucky, early Sunday morning, resulting in the death of 35-year-old Thomas Wayne Dick.
The shooter, Anthony Emerson, 35, from Batavia, Ohio, is now facing a charge of murder. The dispute, which reportedly turned violent, ended with Emerson shooting his lifelong friend.
The Shooting Incident
The incident occurred at a secluded lake house, which the two friends had traveled to, roughly 200 miles south of their respective homes in Ohio and Indiana. According to Pulaski County Sheriff’s deputies, Emerson called 911 himself, claiming that an argument had escalated when Dick “came at me.” When asked who shot Dick, Emerson admitted, “I did,” explaining that he felt threatened and had no choice but to shoot in self-defense.
Emerson also mentioned during the 911 call that he shot Dick in the upper chest and that the victim had no weapons. However, Emerson maintained that he feared for his life during the confrontation.
The 911 Call
In the 911 call obtained by local news stations, the dispatcher questioned Emerson about the details of the situation, asking if Dick had broken into the residence. Emerson denied this, stating that the two had simply gotten into an argument that escalated.
Emerson further claimed that Dick had threatened his life, justifying his actions in the heat of the moment. Emerson’s statements in the call suggest he believed there was no other option but to use force.
The Tragic Outcome and Investigation
By the time authorities arrived at the lake house, it was too late to save Dick. Despite Emerson’s attempts to get help, law enforcement faced delays reaching the remote area due to the lack of proper road signage and an address mix-up. When deputies arrived after 1:30 a.m., Dick was already dead from the gunshot wound.
Deputy Coroner Keith Price revealed that Emerson and Dick had been lifelong friends, which makes the tragic outcome even more puzzling.
The exact cause of the argument that led to the altercation is still unclear, though alcohol consumption was reportedly involved, with Emerson admitting to having been drinking before the fatal confrontation.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Emerson has been arrested and is being held at the Pulaski County Detention Center on a $1 million bond. He faces a single charge of murder, with the investigation ongoing. Authorities have urged the public to come forward with any additional information that might shed light on the circumstances leading up to the shooting.
The shooting death of Thomas Wayne Dick has left the community in shock, especially given that the two men had been lifelong friends.
While Emerson claims he acted in self-defense during a physical altercation, the details of the argument and what led to such a violent outcome remain under investigation. Local law enforcement continues to seek any additional information that could provide clarity in this tragic case.
