Alabama Judge Johnny Hardwick is in critical condition and fighting for his life after being allegedly shot by his son on Saturday, the New York Post reported.
The judge who heads the 15th Judicial Circuit was reportedly shot and seriously injured in his home by his son, Khalfani Hardwick. according to to the New York Post.
Shortly after 1 p.m., the father and son reportedly got into a confrontation that escalated into violence that culminated in gunfire. The altercation was described by authorities as a “domestic incident.”
Alabama judge protects life after being shot by violent son: police https://t.co/DXlTA53ew8 pic.twitter.com/iDRjSz69gW
— New York Post (@nypost) February 25, 2024
The newspaper said no charges had yet been filed against Mr. Khalfani. The newspaper said Judge Hardwick's condition was so severe that he required immediate surgical intervention and that he was still receiving treatment for his serious injuries. Police did not release details such as the extent of the injuries or the number of gunshot wounds. (Related: Maryland judge shot dead in driveway)
This is not the first time Mr. Khalfani has been implicated in a violent crime. His criminal history includes the 2014 shooting death of Clayton Riley, which ended in a plea deal that reduced his attempted murder charge to second-degree assault, the newspaper reported. Despite his father's position as a judge at the time, Khalfani received no jail time for his role in Riley's death, the New York Post added.
Judge Hardwick has been an integral part of the 15th Circuit since 2001 and recently became president of the Alabama Circuit Court Judges Association, according to the New York Post.