Man Accused Of Opening Fire Near Victims At Shady Beach

A St. Clair man was arrested Aug. 20 after allegedly hurling vulgar racial slurs and firing a handgun near victims at Shady Beach.

Philip Carrier, 55, was charged with unlawful possession of a firearm, assault motivated by discrimination, unlawful use of a weapon and resisting arrest.

The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office responded to Shady Beach Lane around 5:39 p.m. after reports of a man flourishing a firearm.

Carrier was allegedly yelling slurs at occupants of the campground. He then began firing a handgun into the water in a threatening manner near the victims. 

Deputies encountered Carrier across the river, who was ordered to cross over. Carrier appeared to be intoxicated and as a deputy tried to place him in handcuffs, a physical altercation occurred.

Another deputy arrived on scene and Carrier was taken into custody without further incident.

Carrier denied firing the gun and said he could not have a firearm due to being a convicted felon. Witnesses were able to help the deputies locate Carrier’s firearm across the river where initial contact was made with him.

Numerous witnesses were interviewed and all gave a similar account.