Actually, the shooter hit the guy's cycling helmet. The bullet went through the helmet. That's cutting it kind of close if you are just trying to fire a warning shot.

After reading the various news accounts, my conclusion is the that law handled this case pretty fairly. I actually am kind of surprised they didn't let him off the hook, and if it had gone to a jury trial, it wouldn't have shocked me if there was a hung jury. Despite the relatively short sentence, the "fire fighter's" life is essentially screwed. He lost his job, has a felony record, and it will be tough finding new employment given the conviction and high unemployment rate in NC right now.