Argument over Iraq war prompts fatal shooting

Posted on Fri, Aug. 05, 2005

Associated Press

PRESTONSBURG, Ky. - A disagreement over the war in Iraq between two friends ended with the fatal shooting of one of the men.

Prosecutors and Kentucky State Police determined that Douglas Moore, 65, of Martin, acted in self-defense. Police did not arrest Moore after the shooting at the Bull Creek Trade Center near Prestonsburg Thursday morning.

The victim, Harold W. Smith, 56, of Manchester, and Moore were friends who each had booths at the center. Smith was shot once in the chest and died at the scene.

They began arguing over the war, said Floyd County Coroner Roger Nelson. "I think Doug was supporting it, and this other guy was against it," he said.

Police said the argument escalated into a fight, and Smith drew a small pistol from his pocket, threatening to kill Moore. Witnesses said Moore pulled a .38-caliber pistol from his pocket and shot Smith once in the chest.

Nelson said he found "a little derringer lying adjacent to Smith's hand where he fell."
Commonwealth's Attorney Brent Turner will decide whether to present the case to a grand jury after state police complete an investigation.

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