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7/30/2010

Salina Journal

By CHRIS HUNTER

Salina Journal

A 63-year-old man was taken to Salina Regional Health Center early Thursday after he and his 13-year-old grandson wrestled a shotgun out of the hands of his son-in-law, said Sheriff Glen Kochanowski.

The son-in-law, Steven Stegman, 43, of Culver, also was treated at the hospital after being arrested on charges that include five counts of aggravated assault, two counts of domestic battery, two counts of aggravated intentional child endangerment, DUI, criminal damage and battery.

Kochanowski said the situation, which began shortly after midnight in the 4600 block of North Shilo, northwest of Salina, could have resulted in tragedy.

Kochanowski said Stegman drove to the home of his in-laws — Daniel Godsey, 63, and Louise Godsey, 62 — shortly after midnight Thursday. The Godseys were there, along with Stegman’s wife, Michelle, 38, and his two children, Logan, 13, and Whitney, 16.

Steven Stegman allegedly began pointing the loaded shotgun at family members. Kochanowski said Daniel Godsey and Logan rushed toward Steven Stegman and wrestled the shotgun from him.

Kochanowski said either Daniel Godsey or Logan grabbed the shotgun ejector and jammed the gun.

After taking the gun, Kochanowski said, the family members began to fight with Steven Stegman and subdued him. Steven Stegman eventually left the house in his truck. Kochanowski said he believed he was going to his home in Culver.

Kochanowski said deputies put out an alert for Steven Stegman, and he was stopped by a Kansas Highway Patrol trooper at Intestate Highway 70 and Hedville Road.

Steven Stegman and Daniel Godsey were taken to Salina Regional Health Center for treatment of cuts. Godsey was also treated for possible internal injuries. Both were treated in the emergency department but not admitted, according to a hospital spokesman.

Kochanowski said the situation at the rural home could have ended up quite differently if Godsey and Logan Stegman hadn’t gotten the shotgun away and subdued Steven Stegman.

“We were very fortunate,” Kochanowski said.