A close friend of a British woman who was fatally shot by her father in the US disclosed that she had expressed significant concern about his ownership of a handgun. The tragic incident involving Lucy Harrison, a 23-year-old from Warrington, Cheshire, unfolded during her visit to her father, Kris Harrison, and his family in Prosper, Texas in January last year, as detailed in an inquest.
According to testimony provided by Lucy’s boyfriend, Sam Littler, an argument over Donald Trump, who was due to be inaugurated as president shortly, had transpired between Lucy and her father on the fateful day. Lucy, who had traveled to the US for a post-Christmas holiday with her father, had also shared with a friend details about Mr Harrison’s struggles with alcoholism, including a past incident that led to his hospitalization.
The friend recounted Lucy’s unease about the presence of a handgun in her father’s home, particularly due to what she perceived as a volatile environment. Concerned for the safety of her younger siblings, Lucy had expressed worries about the firearm to her friend, highlighting her anxiety about the situation.
In a statement, Mr Harrison explained that he had shown Lucy his Glock 9mm semi-automatic handgun after watching a news segment on gun crime together. He emphasized that he had acquired the weapon for home defense purposes and had not previously discussed it with his daughter. The tragic outcome occurred when Mr Harrison unintentionally discharged the firearm while displaying it to Lucy.
The inquest revealed that a US grand jury found insufficient evidence to charge anyone in relation to Lucy’s death. Mr Harrison, who admitted to past issues with alcohol, acknowledged consuming wine on the day of the incident. CCTV footage showed his purchase of wine shortly before the tragic event. Lucy’s mother described her as a vibrant individual who cared deeply about various causes.
Legal proceedings during the inquest took a contentious turn when an application was made to have the coroner recuse herself from the case, a request that was ultimately denied. Mr Harrison, through his legal representatives, expressed deep remorse for his actions and the profound impact of the tragedy, pledging to honor Lucy’s memory by being a devoted father to her siblings.
The inquest was adjourned for further proceedings, with the coroner expected to deliver conclusions at a later date.
