By Shavonne Potts
spotts@salisburypost.com
SALISBURY — Authorities have released the name of a would-be robber who was shot and killed by a North Lee Street homeowner late Saturday night.
Officers responded at 10:28 p.m. to a report of a shooting at 820 North Lee St. where homeowner, Jack Javis, had shot someone trying to rob him.
Salisbury Police say Marlon Jermaine Barber, 23, went into the North Lee Street home, demanded money and a scuffle ensued.
Javis had facial injuries resulting from a physical altercation. Officers learned that moments before the incident, a guest had arrived at Javis’ home, a statement said.
After the two had sat and talked for a short period, a black male opened the front door and walked inside of the house without knocking or being invited in.
Immediately upon entering the house, the black male, later identified as Barber, pointed a handgun at Javis.
During the fight, Barber’s gun fell from his hand to the floor. Javis was able to reach the handgun first. After reaching the gun, however, and while still lying on the floor, Barber initiated another attack by jumping onto Javis’ back.
As the two struggled some more, Javis turned the gun around and shot over his shoulder. The round struck Barber in the chest area. Barber then fled the house on foot.
In an obvious attempt to seek help, Barber ran to a nearby house located just around the corner at 125 East Steele St.
Barber collapsed on the front porch.
Occupants of East Steele Street residence heard Barber on their porch and made an effort to revive him. Their efforts, however, were not successful and Barber died.
Javis was taken to Rowan Regional Medical Center by ambulance for treatment.
As of this time, it is unclear whether or not Javis and Barber were acquainted with one another, however the investigation is continuing, according to Salisbury Police Chief Rory Collins.
“The Salisbury Police Department is quite familiar with Marlon Barber, as our department has encountered him on multiple occasions over several years,” Collins said.
The investigation continues.
Contact reporter Shavonne Potts at 704-797-4253.