Palm Bay, Florida — An 84-year-old man is facing an attempted murder charge after authorities say he shot his adult son in the face during a family argument at a Palm Bay home, an incident that has raised troubling questions about elder stress, caregiving strain, and escalating domestic disputes.
Police say William Nowak, a longtime Palm Bay resident, was arrested Tuesday evening following the shooting at a home on the 1600 block of Hawksbill Street, roughly 75 miles southeast of Orlando.
Police respond to shooting call in Palm Bay neighborhood
According to a probable cause affidavit obtained by local outlets, officers were dispatched to the residence just after 7:30 p.m. following reports of a gunshot.
When police arrived, they found that Nowak’s 62-year-old son had been seriously wounded and required immediate medical attention. The victim was transported to a hospital, where he was later sedated due to the severity of his injuries.
Family living situation outlined in court records
Detective Nicole Brown wrote in the affidavit that Nowak lived at the home with his 85-year-old wife and their adult daughter, who has a disability. Court documents state that Nowak served as the primary caregiver for both.
Police noted that Nowak’s wife was recently placed on in-home hospice care, adding to the emotional and physical demands on the household.
Argument reportedly began over lack of visits
Investigators say the shooting occurred shortly after Nowak’s son and daughter-in-law arrived at the home to visit on Dec. 9.
According to statements provided to police by the son’s wife, Nowak became upset and complained that his son had not visited over the weekend, despite the couple reportedly visiting the home on a weekly basis.
What began as a verbal disagreement quickly escalated into a heated argument between father and son.
Threat allegedly made before shooting
Court records state that during the argument, Nowak allegedly told his son:
“Get out of my house or I’m going to shoot you.”
Investigators say Nowak then walked into his bedroom and retrieved a handgun, passing his daughter-in-law as he moved back toward the kitchen.
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Son shot in the face, police say
According to the affidavit, Nowak entered the kitchen and shot his son in the face. The daughter-in-law told police that Nowak then returned to the bedroom, came back without the gun, and appeared confused and distressed.
The affidavit states that Nowak allegedly said, “What just happened?” before crying and screaming.
Victim hospitalized with serious facial injuries
Medical officials told police the bullet fragmented upon impact, becoming lodged in the victim’s face and jaw. Due to the extent of the injuries, the victim was sedated while receiving treatment.
Nowak was also transported to a hospital following the incident after experiencing high blood pressure, according to local reports.
Charges filed and bond denied
Following the investigation, Nowak was formally charged with attempted murder, authorities said.
He was booked into the Brevard County Jail Complex in Sharpes, where he made his first court appearance on Thursday, Dec. 11.
During the hearing, a judge appointed a public defender to represent Nowak and ordered that he be held without bond.
Case highlights family and elder stress concerns
While the criminal case is still in its early stages, the incident has drawn attention to the pressures faced by elderly caregivers, particularly those caring for spouses with serious illnesses and adult children with disabilities.
Law enforcement officials have not commented on whether mental health evaluations may play a role as the case proceeds.
Investigation ongoing
Police have not released additional details about what may have occurred in the moments leading up to the shooting beyond what is included in the affidavit. The case remains under investigation as prosecutors prepare for future court proceedings.
Nowak remains in custody as the legal process moves forward.
What are your thoughts on how family disputes can escalate under stress, and should more support be available for elderly caregivers? Share your perspective in the comments below.
