Teen Charged With Attempted Homicide In Haverford Shooting

HAVERFORD TOWNSHIP, PA — An 18-year-old Haverford man is in critical condition after a drug deal went bad in Haverford Township, according to authorities. Now, a 17-year-old, also from Haverford, is facing charges including attempted homicide.

Delaware County District Attorney Katayoun Copeland said James McCauley, 17, of Haverford, was arrested and charged Wednesday in connection with the shooting that occurred at about 8:15 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 12 at the intersection of Glen Gary Drive and Rose Tree Lane.

The victim, Marquis Mays, 18 of Havertown, was shot in the face when an argument broke out during the alleged drug deal over one ounce of marijuana, according to authorities. Mays is in critical condition, authorities said.

Authorities determined May and another male arranged to buy one ounce of marijuana for $150 cash from three males, including McCauley, according to the Delaware County District Attorney's Office.

Those three arrived at a pre-arranged location to meet Mays and the other person.

Mays got in the rear seat of a vehicle with the three other men purchase the one ounce of marijuana, the DA's office said.

During the exchange, one of the males in the back of the vehicle became aggressive with Mays and a physical fight ensued between the individuals, the DA's office said.

McCauley then pulled out a black semi-automatic pistol and allegedly shot the victim in the face, according to the DA's office. Both the victim and suspect are students at Haverford High School, police said.

"This is sure to raise many emotions, concerns, and questions for our entire school, especially our students," Haverford High School Principal Pete Donaghy said in an email to district families. "We are saddened by this event in our school community and are keeping all who are impacted in our thoughts."

After the shooting, the suspects ran and police used surveillance footage in the area to determine the suspects' identity, which led them to identify and arrest McCauley.

McCauley faces charges of criminal attempt to commit homicide, aggravated assault, recklessly endangering another person, firearms without a license, possession of an instrument of crime, and receiving stolen property.

He was taken into custody Wednesday morning as police surveilled his home while waiting for the District Attorney's Office to issue a search warrant for the home, police said.

As a result of witness statements, ballistics evidence, and confirmed identification, McCauley was taken into custody was charged as an adult with attempted homicide and related offenses.

Donaghy said the School District of Haverford Township has a team of counselors made up of professionals trained to help with the needs of students, families, and school personnel at difficult times such as this.

"Counselors are available for any student who may need or want any assistance," he said. "We encourage you, as parents or guardians, to also feel free to use our resources. If you need assistance, please do not hesitate to contact our counseling office or administrators."

Image via Delaware County District Attorney's Office