Family Fight Ends When Dad Shoots Son

A 26-year-old Lutz man was in stable condition Sept. 15 after Hillsborough County Sheriff’s deputies say his father shot him in the chest.

The dispute between son, Eric M. Harris, and father, Henry B. Harris, 61, began in the late evening hours Saturday, Sept. 14. Deputies say Eric Harris and his girlfriend returned to the family’s home on San Rio Circle after watching the University of South Florida football game. Eric Harris, deputies say, was intoxicated and began arguing with his girlfriend.

Henry Harris was home at the time, but was getting ready to take his four pit pulls out for a walk. Henry, who has a concealed weapons permit, typically carries a 9mm semi-automatic when he takes the dogs out, deputies said.

As Henry Harris was preparing to leave, the fight between Eric and his girlfriend escalated into a fight between Eric and Henry.

“As Henry exited the residence, Eric attacked him from behind and placed him in a choke hold,” an email from Det. Larry McKinnon said. “Henry stated he could not breathe, his arms began to tingle, and he started to lose consciousness; however, he managed to break free of the choke hold and disengage from his son.”

When Eric started to go for his father again, Henry shot him in the chest.

Henry and a neighbor called 911. Eric Harris was taken to a local hospital where he was listed in stable condition.

No arrests have been made in the case. Details from the investigation will be turned over to the Hillsborough County State Attorney’s Office to review for possible charges, McKinnon said.

Deputies are not releasing the name of Eric Harris’ girlfriend at this time.