A 51-year-old Fayette man is facing a felony charge for accidentally shooting his son to death on February 20.

According to a Fayette Police report, officers were dispatched to a report of a gunshot victim. Upon arrival, officers were notified the victim was deceased inside the residence.

Eddie Martin Valencia told authorities he was checking his .308-caliber rifle. As he was dry firing it, he pulled the trigger. The bullet struck his son in the head. Valencia said he did not check to see if the rifle was loaded “because they’re never put away loaded.” He said he thought his son had left the room. Valencia was arrested.

According to court documents, Valencia is charged with a Class C Felony for Involuntary Manslaughter in the First Degree. Valencia posted $25,000 surety bond on March 4.

Valencia’s initial arraignment hearing is scheduled to be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, March 25, at Howard County Circuit Court.