The Baltimore County Union

Shooting Affair at a Church In Baltimore County.—A tragic affair occurred at St. Stephen's Catholic church, in the eastern section of this county, near the Harford county line, on Sunday morning last, which will most likely result in the death of one of the parties engaged in it. The particulars, as near as we could learn them, are about as follows: Joseph R. Miller, a son of Mr. Albert A. Miller, a well-to-do farmer of that vicinity, about three years ago left his home and went West. Before leaving home he had been on intimate terms with a young daughter of Timothy Shanahan, who farms a place belonging to Dr. David Gittings, and, as alleged, effected her ruin. While living in Indiana young Miller married and about two weeks ago returned to his home in Baltimore county, bringing his wife with him. On Sunday he drove to St. Stephen's church, accompanied by his wife and one of his sisters. After tying his horse he turned to go to the church, but seeing John Shanahan, a brother of the young woman, standing near, he approached and addressed him in a familiar manner. Shanahan, without making a reply, drew his revolver and commenced firing at Miller, discharging four barrels in quick succession. The first shot took effect in the left breast in the region of the heart, the two next shots missed and the last one made a slight flesh wound on the abdomen. Miller tried to get out of the way but was followed up by Shanahan, who was quite near him when the last shot was fired.

As might be supposed the shooting created the greatest consternation. Miller was carried home on a stretcher, and Dr. Gittings was called to attend him, Dr. Altvater being afterwards sent for also. The physicians fear that death may ensue from internal hemorrhage, the ball having penetrated the lung, although there is a very slight chance for his recovery.

After the shooting Shanahan went to the residence of Mr. John T. B. Parlett, in Long Green, where he had been employed as a farm hand, and Mr. Parlett brought him to Towsontown where he gave himself up to Sheriff Worthington, and he has since been confined in jail here. He is about twenty-two years of age and has heretofore borne a good character. Miller is about thirty years old.

Mr. Miller, the father of the wounded man, moved to Baltimore county from near Glen Rock, York county, in 1863. Both families had been on intimate terms and much sympathy is expressed in the neighborhood for them on account of this unfortunate affair.