SAN DIEGO (KGTV) - A 79-year-old man accused of shooting a San Diego water employee on Labor Day pleaded not guilty in court Thursday.
Nathan Brogan maintains he thought someone was breaking into his University Heights home when he pulled out his shotgun.
San Diego police said Brogan opened fire at the worker, who was going door-to-door for emergency maintenance on the evening of Sept. 4.
RELATED: Public utilities worker shot by resident while working in University Heights
The victim was identified as LaCarter Washington, a 30-year-veteran with city's water department. Prosecutors said Washington was in full uniform and explained to Brogan what he was doing there.
However, according to prosecutors, that’s when Brogan allegedly pulled out a shotgun and fired at Washington.
Washington was shot in the arm and suffered shrapnel cuts to his chest. Prosecutors said witnesses rushed in to help him while Brogan stood by and watched from his porch.
RELATED: City worker spoke to shooter before getting shot
Washington remains in the hospital recovering from a shattered bone in his arm and a destroyed artery.
Prosecutors said police discovered several other weapons inside Brogan’s home. He remains in jail as of Thursday evening on $1 million bail.
If Brogan makes bail, he is not allowed to possess any of his weapons.
Brogan faces three felony charges, including attempted murder. If convicted, he could face 34 years to life in prison.
His next court date is Sept. 17.
