In North Carolina, a furniture manufacturer allegedly shot and killed his business partner following a recent court ruling against him in a contractual dispute.

Willard Gary Black, aged 85, faces charges of second-degree murder for the fatal shooting of Robert Roger Arguelles. Reports indicate that Arguelles was struck in the chest and back during the incident, which occurred at the Old Hickory Tannery, a business co-owned by both Black and Arguelles.

The incident unfolded shortly after a judge ordered Black to pay Arguelles $310,882.74 as part of a settlement in a contract dispute. This followed a prior arrangement where Black had sold Arguelles 49.9% of the business stock in 2018. Arguelles stated he loaned Black $280,000, from which only $23,876.19 was repaid. Both parties agreed to settle for the stated amount, but Black later attempted to rescind his consent, which the court denied.

Law enforcement officials reported that an argument erupted between the two men after the court ruling, leading to the shooting. Despite attempts by police to save him, Arguelles succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

Robert Roger Arguelles also served on the board for Alexander County Schools since 2022. District Superintendent Bill Griffin issued a statement highlighting Arguelles’ dedication as a father, husband, and board member, emphasizing the family’s need for privacy during their loss.