COLUMBIA, S.C. — A fatal shooting involving a University of South Carolina student has been deemed justifiable.
According to a press release from the Columbia Police Department (CPD), after consulting with the Fifth Circuit Solicitor's office, no charges will be filed against the homeowner.
CPD investigators have determined that Nicholas Donofrio, a 20-year-old USC student who lived on South Holly Street, mistakenly went to the wrong home and attempted to enter by repeatedly knocking, banging, and kicking at the front door while manipulating the door handle.
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According to police, as Donofrio kicked the door, the female resident of the home called 911 for police assistance. At the same time, the male resident went to another area of the house to retrieve a firearm. While the female was still on the phone with emergency dispatchers, Donofrio broke the front door glass window and reached inside to manipulate the doorknob.
At that time, the male resident fired a single shot through the broken door window, striking Donofrio in the upper body.
The Columbia Police Department and Solicitor's Office have deemed the incident a justifiable homicide under the Protection of Persons and Property Act. (SC Code of Law 16- 11-410 & 420).
The investigation also determined that the homeowner was not prohibited from possessing a firearm, and he legally owned the gun for personal and home protection.
Officials say they came to this conclusion based on several factors, including evidence gathered at the scene, a review of surveillance video that captures moments before the shooting, audio evidence and witness statements.