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Crowd doubles in attendance to honor shooting victim

 

COLUMBUS— On Tuesday, October 24, Tyler Laughter appeared in Polk County Superior court where he is facing involuntary manslaughter charges for the shooting death of his girlfriend, Talia Petoia.

The case was continued for the third time, due to the fact that the full medical report has not been released, according to District Attorney Murray. The medical examiner for this part of North Carolina is backed up nearly a year. 

Approximately 30 people gathered in the courtroom to support Petoia’s family. The crowd more than doubled in size compared to Laughter’s previous court appearances. 

“Many feel that involuntary manslaughter, which is defined as an accident, is an insufficient charge, and that it is possible Talia’s death was not accidental,” said Dr. Emily Shanahan, who attended the proceedings Tuesday.

Laughter’s next court date will be held on Tuesday, February 27, 2024.