Crystal Beach Man Accused Of Shooting Brother During Argument

CRYSTAL BEACH, FL — A Crystal Beach man has been hospitalized with life-threatening injuries after detectives said he was shot by his brother.

Pinellas County Sheriff's deputies were called to 227 Avery Ave. in Crystal Beach at 12:02 a.m. Saturday after several residents reported hearing a gunshot.

They found 36-year-old Ralph Edward "Eddie" Paulk III with a life-threatening gunshot wound.

Detectives said he and his brother, 28-year-old Alexander Michael Paulk, got into a fight on the staircase landing of the home they share with their father. They were joined by their father, 61-year-old Ralph Edward Paulk Jr.

During the argument, Alexander Paulk said he had something for his brother and produced a handgun. He fired one round into his brother's lower abdomen.

Pinellas County Sheriff

Alexander Paulk has been charged with attempted murder.

Detectives said Alexander Paulk then left the home but returned a short time later. When interviewed by detectives, he said he didn't know anything about the shooting.

Detectives arrested Alexander Paulk and transported him to the Pinellas County Jail where he's been charged with attempted murder.

Eddie Paulk remains in the hospital with life-threatening injuries.