Man allegedly shoots dead neighbour using leaf blower in own yard

An elderly US man has been charged with murder after prosecutors say he fatally shot his neighbour in the head while he was using a leaf blower.

Ettore Lacchei, 79, was charged with two counts of first-degree murder over the death of 59-year-old William Martys, police report.

Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to reports of an unresponsive man on a driveway on North Black Oak Ave, in Northern Illinois, on April 12.

Watch the latest news and stream for free on 7plus >>

The man, identified as Martys, was found shot in the head and later died in hospital.

Lacchei, who is Martys next-door neighbour, had “various perceived grievances with Martys”, according to the Sheriff’s Office.

On the day of the murder, Martys was using a leaf blower in his yard when Lacchei approached him and began arguing.

Lacchei then allegedly shot Martys in the head, the sheriff’s office says.

Lacchei was arrested at his home on Tuesday, April 25.

The Lake County State’s Attorney’s Office approved the charges of two counts of first-degree murder.

Lacchei remains in jail as he awaits his initial court hearing.

Sheriff John D. Idleburg said: “Our condolences go out to the family and friends of William Martys, who was senselessly murdered.”

Lake County State’s Attorney Eric Rinehart blamed easy access to guns for the fatal outcome.

“Once again, easy access to firearms has turned a dispute into a deadly crime. We will support the victims and seek justice in the courtrooms,” he said.