15-year-old Pennsylvania boy charged with first-degree murder in homeless man's shooting

A homeless man named Jeremiah Hawkins, 39, was fatally shot in the face in Pennsylvania, and a 15-year-old boy named Thomas James Niarhos is now facing charges of first-degree murder and other offenses, according to authorities. The shooting took place on Wednesday afternoon in Pottstown, located about 40 miles northwest of Philadelphia, as Niarhos allegedly confronted Hawkins. This information was reported in a news release by Montgomery County District Attorney Kevin Steele and Pottstown Police Chief Mick Markovich.

Niarhos was brought before a judge on Wednesday for an initial hearing where he was charged as an adult, according to a news release from authorities. He is being accused of first-degree murder, third-degree murder, unlawful possession of a firearm, possession of a firearm by a minor, and possession of a weapon.

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The incident took place on Wednesday afternoon when witnesses and surveillance video footage revealed that the teenager intentionally approached Hawkins, leading to an argument, according to a statement from the police and district attorney. Hawkins allegedly swung a tire at Niarhos, who was holding a gun with his arm extended, according to authorities.

After firing the gun, Niarhos caused Hawkins to fall, according to authorities. After pulling the trigger a second time, the teen dropped the weapon and attempted to walk away, but bystanders detained them, as per the authorities' statement. Upon arresting the teen, police officers discovered a .40 caliber semi-automatic firearm at the scene, which detectives later confirmed belonged to the suspect's father.

Hawkins was declared dead at a hospital after succumbing to a gunshot wound to the head, according to the coroner's office.

It remains unknown if Niarhos has legal representation. Court records indicate that he was informed of his right to seek counsel but chose not to request a public defender.

After being arrested in Pennsylvania, a defendant typically goes before a magistrate judge for a preliminary arraignment. This is where they receive a copy of the criminal complaint and are informed of their rights. The defendant does not need to enter a plea until their formal arraignment. Niarhos is currently held without bail at the Montgomery County Youth Center and is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on November 30th.

CNN has reached out to authorities for the criminal complaint and a copy of the police incident report but has not heard back.