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Tomblin Cites Concerns Over Gun Law In Teen’s Death
By: Associated Press
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CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) – West Virginia Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin says the recent fatal shooting of a Charleston teenager again raises policy questions over the state law enacted over his veto that allows residents to carry a concealed gun without a permit.
Tomblin says James Means’ death Nov. 21 has shaken the Charleston community.
Police say the black 15-year-old was fatally shot by William Pulliam, a 62-year-old white man, after they bumped into each other outside a store and twice exchanged words.
Pulliam in a jail interview said he shot in self-defense.
The Charleston Gazette-Mail reports Pulliam pleaded no contest in a 2013 domestic violence case and wasn’t allowed to have a gun.
Tomblin, who leaves office in January, says Means’ death brings his abiding concerns about the law “into sharp focus once again.”