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The Villages
Friday, May 3, 2024

Infatuated, intoxicated Villager accused of shooting at neighbor lady’s home

A 69-year-old Village of Hadley man, described as infatuated and intoxicated, allegedly repeatedly fired a gun Monday night at a neighbor lady’s home.

Howard Sparber
Howard Sparber

Howard Sparber fired 33 rounds into the neighbor’s residence on Landale Loop, according to the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office. He had been trying to gain entrance into the woman’s home. But she wasn’t home.

During the shooting, neighbors who heard the shots exited their residences and confronted Sparber, who was still holding the firearm, a Sig Sauer 9mm semi-automatic handgun.

The victim reported that Sparber has been harassing her since November with sexual propositions and had previously pointed a firearm at her, making her fear for her life. She took steps to avoid Sparber when he repeatedly approached the residence trying to contact her.

Howard Sparber is accused of shooting at the door of this woman's home in the Village of Hadley.
Howard Sparber is accused of shooting at the door of this woman’s home in the Village of Hadley.

Sparber was arrested without incident. In addition to the handgun, Sparber was found to be in possession of two empty magazines – one with a 15 round capacity and one with a 20 round capacity.  The fired rounds entered the storm door, front door, and continued through the foyer, and into the kitchen cabinetry and contents. The home suffered approximately $3,000 in damage.    

Sparber was being held without bond at the Sumter County Detention Center. He is facing charges of armed burglary, aggravated stalking, shooting into a dwelling and criminal mischief.   

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