Jonathan Dale Hughes – a man accused of shooting at his mother during an incident in rural Cowley County earlier this month – is facing a charge of attempted first-degree murder in connection with the incident.
When Hughes, 23, was booked into jail last week, the most serious charge against him was aggravated battery. County attorney Chris Smith said that changed once the case was evaluated by his office.
“Upon a review of the report,” he said. “We came to the decision to pursue that charge (attempted murder).”
Hughes was in court Wednesday for a brief appearance with his attorney David Maslen, of Ark City. Bond for the defendant remains at $25,500.
Hughes, who is from Wichita, is expected back in a Winfield courtroom at 1:45 p.m. Aug. 2 so that a date for a preliminary hearing can be set.
He is accused of shooting at his mother July 17 following a night of drinking.
Hughes is said to have driven his mother into the country where he became upset and allegedly fired a handgun at her as she fled.
He is facing counts of aggravated battery, aggravated assault, kidnapping and DUI, in addition to the attempted murder count.