WALTON COUNTY, Fla. – A 25-year-old Mossy Head man was arrested Friday, Oct. 16, 2026, after deputies say he shot another man in the ear with a rifle-style pellet gun following an argument over missing money from a gas station tip jar.
D. Aaron Chance Taylor, 25, was charged with aggravated battery causing bodily harm and possession of drug equipment following the shooting at a residence on Stewart Circle.
The victim suffered two projectile wounds and was transported to a hospital for treatment, according to the Walton County Sheriff’s Office.
Argument Over Missing Tip Money Leads to Shooting
Walton County sheriff’s deputies responded to the Stewart Circle residence shortly after 11 a.m. Friday following a report of a shooting.
When deputies arrived, they spoke with the victim, who said he and Taylor had argued earlier that morning about money missing from a tip jar at a gas station.
According to the victim, the disagreement became heated before Taylor walked away.
Moments later, the victim felt a sudden sting on the side of his head.
The victim told deputies he looked up and saw Taylor running away.
He then realized he was bleeding from his ear.
Walton County Fire Rescue paramedics examined the victim and discovered two wounds caused by a projectile. The victim was transported to a hospital for further medical care.
Authorities did not release additional information about the victim’s condition.
Witness Reports Seeing Suspect Fire Rifle-Style Pellet Gun
A witness told investigators they saw Taylor point a rifle-style pellet gun at the victim and fire.
According to the witness, the victim fell to the ground after being struck.
The witness said Taylor then concealed himself, and the witness lost sight of the pellet gun.
Deputies searched the surrounding area for Taylor.
Approximately 10 minutes after paramedics left the scene, Taylor emerged from nearby woods wearing different pants and carrying another pair of pants.
Deputies quickly detained him.
The sheriff’s office did not indicate whether investigators recovered the pellet gun.
Deputies Discover Suspected Drug Paraphernalia During Arrest
During a search of Taylor, deputies discovered a straw that tested positive for methamphetamine, according to the sheriff’s office.
Based on the evidence collected and statements from the victim and witness, investigators arrested Taylor.
He was charged with:
- Aggravated battery causing bodily harm
- Possession of drug equipment
Taylor was transported to the Walton County Jail for booking.
Suspect Held Without Bond Pending October 20 Hearing
During his first court appearance, Taylor was denied bond.
According to the Walton County Sheriff’s Office, he remained incarcerated at the time of the agency’s announcement.
A pretrial detention hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2026.