Colby Dillon Bradley, 19, of Elon, North Carolina, died of a gunshot wound on February 6, 2021. A Western Alamance High School graduate who loved military history and the idea of the US Marine Corps, he was remembered as a free spirit who enjoyed fishing, fireside music and time with family and friends.

Law enforcement responded that evening to a shooting on Altamahaw Church Street in Elon and found Colby deceased. Investigators reported a 15-year-old juvenile unintentionally discharged a Mosin-Nagant 7.62x54R bolt-action rifle that belonged to Colby. The juvenile was examining the rifle, believed it to be clear, and a struggle ensued when Colby entered the room and grabbed the gun; it then discharged.

The juvenile was charged with involuntary manslaughter and the District Attorney described the shooting as accidental. Colby’s family and community mourned his loss and remembered his kindness and humor. If anyone knew Colby or has information about that night, please share what you know.