1971-12-18
Brothers Innocent in Shooting Death
HEREFORD - Two Hereford brothers Saturday were found innocent of charges in connection with the June 19 shooting death of a band drummer playing at the Emancipation Day Celebration dance here.
The jury of 1l women and one man deliberated nearly six hours before reaching the verdict about 4 a.m.. Sunday.
Alfred High, 36, was charged with murder with malice in the shooting death of James Edward White Sr., 35, of Plainview. Wesley High, 41, was charged with assault with intents to murder.
White died in a burst of gunfire at the celebration that wounded three other persons.
Wesley High testified that White drew a pistol and started firing at him and he returned the gunfire, emptying his pistol.
Alfred testified that he saw the drummer crouching and thought he had a weapon. He also emptied his gun at the victim.
Several bullets and 25 and .32 caliber pistols were recovered by police.
White was substitute band drummer and vocalist for his brother's combo that was booked to play for the dance. It climaxed a parade and celebration sponsored by the local chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.
Prosecutor for the case was Deaf Smith County District Attorney Andy Shuval, who was parade marshall at the celebration. The trial was held in 69th District Court before Judge Archie S. McDonald.