Photo by File photo James Wilson

A North Platte man pleaded not guilty in the shooting of 24-year-old Evan Stark in August 2009 over firewood.

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James Wilson entered his plea March 8. He was last in court in January seeking a reduction in his bond, which was lowered to $10,000. Wilson bonded out Jan. 27 after sitting in jail since his August arrest.

He was initially held on $150,000 bond. That was reduced to $25,000 Nov. 16.

Wilson is accused of shooting Stark, 24, twice in the stomach with a pistol early in the morning Aug. 2.

He is charged with first-degree assault, use of a weapon to commit a felony, and making terroristic threats.

A police spokesperson said following Wilson’s arrest that an after-bar party was held at 508 E. Tenth. Someone suggested building a bonfire, so members of the party crossed the street to gather firewood from Wilson’s neighbor’s house.

At that time, the spokesperson said, Wilson exited his home armed with two pistols. The police believe the guns were .32 caliber and .22 caliber. Wilson confronted the group taking the firewood and turned them back.

When the group Wilson confronted returned to the party, they described what happened. Several people decided to confront Wilson.

He was still armed with the two pistols when members of the party returned to his side of the street. An argument ensued. Wilson allegedly opened fire and shot Stark twice in the stomach with the .22.

After the shots, several people rushed Wilson, took him to the ground and disarmed him, the police spokesperson said.

Officer Rick Harms responded to the incident and arrested Wilson at the scene.