Georgia Man Accused of Accidentally Killing Sleeping Neighbor While Cleaning Gun Faces Years in Prison

The trial of a Georgia man accused of accidentally killing his sleeping neighbor through the shared wall of their apartments while cleaning his gun began Monday at the Gwinnett County Courthouse.

Maxwell Williamson, 25, faces charges of involuntary manslaughter and reckless conduct after a stray bullet from his firearm killed his next-door neighbor, Carlether Foley, 36, in September 2021, FOX 5 reported.

Authorities say Williamson accidentally discharged the weapon while cleaning it in his Duluth apartment. The bullet penetrated the wall and fatally struck Foley in the head while she was asleep. Her 17-year-old son discovered her unresponsive and called for help. He is expected to testify during the trial.

Foley, a mother who had moved to metro Atlanta from Houston, Texas, was remembered by her family as lively and determined.

"She was full of life and fun. She was always smiling. One thing about Carlether, she was a go-getter," her brother, George Foley, told FOX 5.

Williamson, held without bond since the incident, could face significant prison time if convicted. "If you have a gun and stay in an apartment, you have to be careful," Foley's brother urged. "Our lives have been turned upside down."