84-Year-Old Florida Man Accused of Shooting His Son in the Face During Argument Over Hospice Visits

FLORIDA — A family dispute in Brevard County took a violent and shocking turn after an 84-year-old man allegedly shot his son in the face during an argument about how often the younger man was visiting his ailing mother, who is currently in hospice care.

According to the Palm Bay Police Department, the shooting occurred on Tuesday evening inside the family’s home on Hawksbill Street Northwest. The suspect, identified as William Nowak, is now facing a charge of attempted first-degree murder.

Authorities say the heated confrontation erupted after Nowak accused his son and daughter-in-law of not visiting his wife frequently enough while she receives hospice care at home.

Argument Escalated to Gunfire

Investigators reported that the victim and his wife arrived at the residence around 6 p.m. for what was meant to be a routine visit. During their conversation, the argument quickly turned personal and emotional.

Police said Nowak became enraged and yelled, “Get out of my house or I’m going to shoot you.” Moments later, he allegedly retrieved a firearm and shot his adult son in the face at close range.

The victim’s wife immediately called 911 while attempting to render aid. Responding officers found the victim conscious but severely injured, with a gunshot wound to the face. He was transported to a nearby hospital in critical but stable condition following emergency surgery.

Suspect in Custody Without Resistance

Officers arrested Nowak at the scene without incident. Police say he admitted to firing the shot but expressed “no remorse”, insisting he was frustrated over what he saw as neglect toward his wife, who is battling end-of-life illness.

“This is one of the more tragic domestic cases we’ve seen — an argument about family care escalating to an act of violence,” a Palm Bay police spokesperson said. “Elderly stress and emotional tension around hospice care can be profound, but this situation crossed a line that changed multiple lives forever.”

Community Shock and Legal Outlook

Neighbors told investigators that the Nowak family had appeared “under great stress” in recent weeks as the mother’s health declined. One resident said, “They seemed close, but the strain of hospice and emotions just overwhelmed everyone.”

Nowak was booked into the Brevard County Jail and is being held without bond. Court documents show he faces charges including attempted first-degree murder and use of a firearm during a felony.

Under Florida law, if convicted, Nowak could face a life sentence given the violent nature of the offense and the victim’s severe injuries.

Family and Community Grieving

As of Wednesday, police confirmed that the victim is expected to survive after undergoing surgery. Family members have requested privacy as the victim recovers.

Hospice workers and grief counselors in the area have spoken publicly about the emotional toll that end-of-life caregiving can place on families. “It’s a heartbreaking example of what unchecked stress and emotional breakdown can lead to,” one local hospice counselor said.

The investigation remains ongoing as detectives review forensic evidence and statements from both the suspect and witnesses.

For continuing updates on this case and other Florida crime reports, visit SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.