WEST PARIS — A 30-year-old West Paris man was arrested early Friday morning after his gun went off during an argument with another man.

Mark C. Brann of Allen Road was initially charged with reckless conduct with a dangerous weapon, criminal threatening with a dangerous weapon, operating under the influence, operating after suspension, and carrying a concealed weapon. The complaint by the District Attorney’s Office dropped all but the reckless conduct and criminal threatening charges.

According to court documents, Brann pointed a loaded .45-caliber pistol at 41-year-old Del Thompson. The report says alcohol was a factor in the incident, and that Brann threatened to kill Thompson. Defense attorney John Jenness Jr. said at Brann’s initial court appearance in the Oxford County Superior Court on Friday that Thompson is Brann’s wife’s uncle, as well as their landlord.

Thompson tried to take the weapon, and during the struggle the gun went off. The bullet struck a piece of furniture and the floor, and no one was injured. Brann was arrested at his home at about 12:40 a.m. by Trooper Greg Tirado of the Maine State Police.

Assistant District Attorney Richard Beauchesne recommended that Brann remain in jail on $2,500 bail. Jenness said Brann has no prior convictions and takes care of a child, and recommended that the court allow a supervised pre-trial release.

Justice Robert Clifford said Brann could be released on personal recognizance bail if a pre-trial service agreed to supervise him, and said he would have to be brought before the court for further bail discussions if none agreed to do so. Clifford also said Brann must not use or possess alcohol, illegal drugs, or dangerous weapons and submit to random searches.

Brann had been transferred to the Androscoggin County Jail by Friday afternoon.

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