Lincoln Police were called to 50th and West Benton Street on November 29th just before 10 p.m. after receiving a report of shots fired in the area. Police spoke with a 21 year old woman who said she had argued with an ex-boyfriend, 21 year old James Thornton. She stated Thornton threatened to shoot up the house and he was going to grab a gun. She and two friends left the home.
A short time later, they heard gunshots outside. Inside the home were two other adults and a 12 year old. There were no injuries reported to police but officers did find a 9mm spent shell casing on the street in front of the house. They also found a bullet hole on the exterior that traveled through two walls. Witnesses stated Thornton left the area in a Honda that had been spray painted black.
A short time later, an officer was in the area of NW 12th and W Adams and saw that vehicle. The officer tried to get a license plate but it took off, running stop signs at a high rate of speed. The officer then saw the vehicle swerve and hit a pillar under the I-80 overpass. Thornton was taken into custody without further problems. Officers did notice a strong odor of alcohol and found two 9mm magazines in a bag on the front passenger seat but a gun was not located.
Thornton was first taken to a hospital to be checked out and then booked for unlawful discharge of a firearm and use of a firearm to commit a felony. Further charges are pending the result of the blood alcohol testing.