Jacksonville man charged with killing friend

A Jacksonville man has been charged with the shooting death of a friend late Saturday at a home on the city's Westside.

Michael Payton Hooks, 22, died after being shot about 10:15 p.m. at his home in the 6000 block of Toyota Drive, the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office said.

Police arrested Angelo Giardino III, also 22, on a manslaughter charge in the death. Giardino, of the 8100 block of Colonnade Court West, was jailed with no bail Sunday at the Duval County jail. He is scheduled to be in court Monday for a hearing, Sheriff's Office records show.

The Sheriff's Office said Hooks and Giardino were friends. Detectives believe the shooting happened when Giardino got a gun belonging to Hooks that was found inside the home.

Not realizing the gun was loaded, Giardino pointed it at Hooks and pulled the trigger. Hooks was hit by one bullet and died after being rushed to the hospital, according to the Sheriff's Office.

Anyone with information can contact the Sheriff's Office at (904) 630-0500, JSOCrimeTips@JaxSheriff.org or Crime Stoppers at (866) 845-TIPS.

Teresa Stepzinski: (904) 359-4075