Florida

New Dad Dies Month After Being Struck by Stray Bullet in Central Florida

A central Florida man has died after being struck by a stray bullet just four days after the birth of his first child.

The Orlando Sentinel reports 32-year-old Brian Mortensen was working on a fence at an apartment complex near Orlando on March 18 when he was hit in his chest and arm. He died Tuesday.

The alleged shooter is being held without bond at the Orange County Jail. Sheriff's officials say 21-year-old Jakell Ward fired shots during a fight with his girlfriend outside their apartment. His girlfriend wasn't injured.

Mortensen's wife Doria Mortensen calls the act "senseless,'' adding that it destroyed many lives.

Sheriff's spokeswoman Jane Watrel says they're working with the State Attorney's office to upgrade the charge to murder.

It's unclear whether Ward has a lawyer.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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