A Lakeland mother fatally shot her son in self-defense on Friday night, deputies said.
According to reports, 86-year-old Nancy Pennypacker told deputies she had shot her son, William Pennypacker, 64, in self-defense after he punched her in the face and fired a gun at her.
Deputies said moments later the two began shooting at each other, leaving Nancy with a bullet wound that shot through her finger to her shoulder.
William Pennypacker was found dead inside the home at Citrus Woods Estates off Orange Blossom Circle in Lakeland.
Nancy’s long time friend and neighbor, Sue Robbins, wasn't surprised and said there were plenty of warning signs.
“We expected it for a long time,” Robbins said. “It would get pretty bad. She would have bruises all over her arms. She’s had black eyes."
According to arrest records deputies arrested William twice in the past for allegedly beating his mother and assaulting her with a deadly weapon, but the charges never stuck.
“He was arrested for that, taken to the Polk County Jail, booked in and his mother wouldn’t press charges so he was released,” said neighbor Larry Mccrann.
It’s something that had thier senior community on edge, until now.
“Unfortunately and sadly enough, they’re not surprised that this happened and with his demise, the living on pins and needles about it is over with. They feel relief,” Mccrann said.
Pennypacker told detectives her son was depressed and had threatened to harm himself in the past.
At this point in the investigation there does not appear to be any charges expected.
Pennypecker was transported to Lakeland Regional Hospital. Officials said she is stable.