RAMSEUR — A victim of a gunshot wound died prior to being airlifted early Tuesday morning.

According to Ramseur Police Chief Larry Lewallen, officers responded at approximately 12:40 a.m. to 545 Shady Lane, Ramseur, in reference to a shooting. There they found Michael Watts, 54, inside the residence with a gunshot wound from a 9-mm. handgun.

Watts was transported by emergency services to the parking lot of Just Save on U.S. 64 for airlift to UNC Hospitals. However, Lewallen said, the victim died before becoming airborne.

Officers detained Myquail Watts, the son of the victim, before later releasing him to his family. Lewallen said investigators will review all evidence and witness statements with the Randolph County District Attorney’s office to determine what charges to file.

Myquail Watts admitted to the shooting, Lewallen said, adding that a verbal altercation became physical, resulting in the shooting.

The body of Michael Watts is scheduled for autopsy by the N.C. Medical Examiner on Wednesday.