Judge Says Gun Range Not Responsible for Stray Bullets

A judge on Friday cleared Blue Trail Range in Wallingford of any wrongdoing in a lawsuit filed by Durham resident Pasquale "Pat" DiNatale.

DiNatale sued the gun range in 2008, claiming that bullets fired from the facility had struck his home. He also alleged that lead from the bullets caused contamination in the water supply near his home. 

In his ruling, Judge Grant Miller said DiNatale failed to prove with expert testimony that the lead had in fact come from the range. (See ruling in attached PDF)

"The plaintiff has failed to meet his burden of proof on this issue," the decision read.

The judge also dismissed claims that the range caused noise pollution.     

Blue Trail’s owner, David Lyman, said the range has suffered over the lawsuit.

“This decision is such a relief,” Lyman said. “The Lyman family has a long and distinguished history in the shooting sports and has always made safety its highest priority. Blue Trail prides itself on being one of the safest rifle ranges in the nation."

DiNatale says he will appeal the ruling.

"I'm going to continue to fight. I'm not going to lay down for anybody," he said.