The Apollo Beach man who shot a neighbor after an altercation Thursday has been released from custody and has not been charged with any crime, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office.
According to the homicide detectives who collected evidence and conducted interviews, John E. Gallik, 52, was shot and killed during a confrontation with his neighbor, David Cockerham, 67.
The incident happened around 6 p.m. Thursday at Del Webb, a retirement community, on Silver Falls Drive where both men lived.
Detectives said Cockerham was out walking his dog along the sidewalk past Gallik's house when the animal knocked over a sign in Gallik's yard.
As Cockerham attempted to move the sign out of the way and control his pet, Gallik exited his residence, yelling profanities and charging towards Cockerham, according to the report.
Officials said Gallik pulled a butterfly knife from his pocket and began to wave it at Cockerham. According to the report, Gallik also threatened to cut Cockerham's throat.
Then, as Gallik continued to threaten Cockerham, Gallik charged at Cockerham with the knife, officials said. Cockerham pulled a .38 caliber revolver from his pocket and fired one shot towards Gallik, officials said.
Gallik was struck in the stomach and died at the scene, officials said. Cockerham immediately contacted 911 and waited at the scene for deputies to arrive.
Cockerham was not charged with any crime and was released pending the completion of the investigation and a final ruling by the Hillsborough County State Attorney's Office.
Bay News 9 has uncovered a lawsuit against Gallik filed by the Del Webb Homeowner's Association. Neighbors said the situation with Gallik was "uneasy" and had been getting worse during the past few months.