Spurs Bet Turns to Gunfire

by Marvin Hurst / KENS 5 San Antonio

A northwest-side man is in trouble with the authorities for firing a shotgun in connection with collecting a debt due from a San Antonio Spurs game, police said. In fact, the situation surrounding the shooting almost evolved into a standoff with San Antonio police.

According to police, they responded to the 6100 block of Whitby around 3 a.m. Wednesday following reports of gunfire and an argument at a northwest-side apartment complex. Investigators said a man had a dispute with a neighbor about money from an overdue bet. That turned into the suspect reportedly firing a shotgun to emphasize his determination to collect his cash.

Police saturated the apartment complex for nearly two hours. They made contact with people in the suspect's apartment, investigators said. Three people who were not involved with the incident reportedly exited the apartment. Officers maintained their positions until they decided to diffuse the situation by backing off, according to a sergeant on the scene.

There was no more gunfire and no reason to enter the apartment forcefully the sergeant said. However, officers continued to patrol the area as a precaution.

The suspect was not immediately arrested at the scene. Police said a weapons charge would be forthcoming. No one was injured in the shooting.