Oregon man gets 6 years for shooting, killing friend

Associated Press

MEDFORD, Ore. — A Medford man has been sentenced to prison for killing his friend while handling a gun under the influence of heroin.

The Mail Tribune reported that 23-year-old Vincent DiCostanzo pleaded guilty Thursday to manslaughter and weapons charges in the April shooting of 34-year-old Luke Heiner-Barmes. He was sentenced to more than six years in prison.

Defense Attorney Christine Kantas Herbert, says her client intended to give the gun to Heiner-Barmes as a gift.

Senior Deputy District Attorney Terry Smith-Norton says DiCostanzo was trying to demonstrate how to use the revolver when he accidentally fired the weapon, shooting Heiner-Barmes in the chest.

Heiner-Barmes’ family said they were angry that DiCostanzo immediately fled after shooting his friend.

Kantas Herbert says her client was severely depressed after the incident and wanted to face the consequences of his actions.

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