The Columbus County district attorney told the family and attorney of Jasmine Thar that he needed more time to investigate the case before determining whether charges will be filed.

The 16-year-old Ardrey Kell High School student was shot and killed while visiting relatives in Chadbourn, N.C., in December. 

Thar and two of her relatives were hit by the same bullet after a neighbor said his high-powered rifle accidentally fired when he took it out of its case inside his home. 

The neighbor was not charged. 

On Thursday, the family’s attorney, Willie Gary, said there was no timeframe for when the district attorney could make a decision. 

“The legal process takes time,” Gary said.

Gary said he trusts that the district attorney is working to thoroughly examine the case.  Gary said in the end, even though the family is restless, they do not want a rush job done on the investigation.

Prior to the meeting with the district attorney, Gary and his legal team met with the family and local community leaders for a lunch meeting. 

“We’re going to be watching every move that’s made.  We’re going to be evaluating every piece of evidence,” he told the family.

Gary said ultimately, if charges are not filed, he would be willing to ask that the Justice Department conduct its own independent federal investigation.