Southold man shoots at boy, 14, after doorbell prank, police say

A Southold man fired a shotgun through his door at a 14-year-old boy who had been ringing his doorbell and running, police said.

James Moshier, whose age was not known, was arrested and charged with assault in connection with the incident, which occurred around 9 p.m. Thursday, Southold Det. Sgt. Steven Harned said in an interview. 

“It was a ring-and-run incident that ensued over a period of time,” Harned said. “The homeowner did not realize youths were involved and believed somebody might have been breaking into his house. … He fires from within the residence, through the door.” 

Police were investigating the type of shell that was used, Harned said. 

The boy was taken to Peconic Bay Medical Center with an injury that was not life-threatening, police said.

By Nicholas Spangler

nicholas.spangler@newsday.comspanglernewsday

Nicholas Spangler is a general assignment reporter and has worked at Newsday since 2010.