PHOENIX — A Phoenix man is claiming self-defense, new court documents reveal, after a deadly shooting at a bar over the weekend.
Brandon Mitchell, 31, admitted to police he shot Charles Porter, 43, after an altercation at a bar near Cave Creek and Greenway roads just after midnight on Saturday.
Porter was rushed to the hospital where he later died.
Mitchell allegedly assaulted a 50-year-old man in the bar. Porter confronted Mitchell about the assault, an argument ensued, and Mitchell ended up shooting Porter.
Mitchell allegedly told police he assaulted the first victim because he felt threatened. He reportedly told investigators he believed the 50-year-old man was holding a debit card in this hand and "was going to use it to cut his throat," court documents reveal.
According to court paperwork, Mitchell told investigators he was in "fear for his life and safety," because he thought Porter was going to beat him up after the altercation with the 50-year-old man.
Mitchell told police he did not see a weapon in Porter's hand, court paperwork shows.
Porter's stepfather shared with 12 News his stepson was a decorated veteran and served three tours in the Middle East before he was wounded in the line of duty.
Porter was also a father.
"A father could never ask for more of a son than Chuck gave and he earned a right to raise those beautiful kids and somebody took it away from him," Porter's stepfather said.
Mitchell faces charges of second-degree murder and assault.