CICERO, N.Y. -- Neighbors of James Ball, accused of shooting and killing his brother-in-law after an argument escalated early Tuesday morning, said that "the guy doesn't have a mean bone in his body."
Ball, 55, is a 4th grade teacher at Smith Road Elementary in the North Syracuse Central School District. He's a husband, and the father of two girls.
Now, he's also the suspect in a violent murder.
Ball was out with his brother-in-law, Christopher Ross, late Monday night, when a fight started. After Ball's wife separated the two, investigators say Ball returned with a 22 caliber rifle and shot Ross multiple times.
"Real passionate about his job," said Buluck.
"I was absolutely shocked. Because he's always happy-go-lucky. Nice guy, great guy," said Tyler Buluck.
Margaret Lech and her husband knew the family for years. They share a backyard fence, and often interacted.
"We're like one big happy family," said Lech. "I have a neighbor across the street that's like another son to me, just a good neighborhood."
Superintendent Annette Speach says this was extremely shocking to the entire school community. Their focus now is to help students cope during this difficult time.
James Ball is charged with murder 2nd and criminal use of a firearm. He's held in jail without the possibility of making bail.