A man accused of beating an 86-year-old to death during a home invasion in Bartow County last week is behind bars, authorities said.
Jason Monroe Eldridge, 42, of Cartersville, was booked into jail Thursday following his release from the hospital.
The suspect was shot several times by the victim’s neighbors after allegedly breaking into the home on Floral Drive and hitting 86-year-old Calvin Lee with a wooden board multiple times, AJC.com previously reported.
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According to police, Lee’s neighbors heard the commotion and rushed over to help. Eldridge was shot after reportedly trying to attack them with a metal post.
Lee was rushed to the hospital but later died of his injuries.
Investigators said Friday that Eldridge was familiar with Lee and that the attack was not random.
“They were acquainted with each other,” Bartow County Sheriff’s Office spokesman Maj. Jonathan Rogers said. “... not a friendship, but they knew each other.”
MORE: 86-year-old homeowner dies after intruder attacks him, Bartow officials say
Eldridge is charged with murder, two counts of exploitation/intimidation of an elderly person, battery against a person over the age of 65, two counts of terroristic threats and acts, second-degree criminal damage to property, criminal attempt to commit felony theft by taking, two counts of aggravated assault, criminal trespass and burglary.
He remains held at the Bartow County Jail without bond.
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