ORMOND BEACH, Fla. — Prosecutors have formally charged Michael Lavar Hightower with six felonies following an attack that killed Roger Bradley, seriously injured his wife and preceded the shooting of an Ormond Beach police officer.
The charging document, submitted Oct. 7 in Volusia County, includes second-degree murder in Bradley’s death. Prosecutors allege Hightower repeatedly struck Bradley in the head, neck and body during the Sept. 20 attack.
Hightower also faces attempted second-degree murder with a deadly weapon and aggravated battery on a person 65 or older involving Nancy Bradley.
Prosecutors allege he repeatedly struck her and hit her with a vehicle, causing great bodily harm, permanent disability or permanent disfigurement.
Police previously said the Bradleys discovered Hightower stealing from Daytona College, where he worked as a contractor. Investigators said he attacked the couple because he believed they would call 911.
Channel 9 previously reported details from the arrest records, including what investigators said happened after Hightower was taken into custody.
Police said Hightower was taken to AdventHealth Daytona Beach for medical clearance. During a struggle early Sept. 21, investigators said he reached for Officer Austin Long’s holstered firearm and fired it, striking Long in the leg.
The formal charges involving the officer are attempted second-degree murder of a law enforcement officer with a firearm and aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer with a firearm.
Prosecutors allege the officer was performing official duties, Hightower knew he was a law enforcement officer and the gunshot caused great bodily harm.
The sixth count is escape involving a firearm. The charging document alleges Hightower escaped or attempted to escape from confinement while possessing and discharging a gun.
The document lists a mandatory life sentence for the attempted murder charge involving the officer if Hightower is convicted as charged.
The charges are allegations, and Hightower is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
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