A 19-year-old Benton man was undergoing surgery Friday after he was shot in the neck following a domestic argument earlier in the day.

Izeck Spaulding was allegedly shot by Hailie A. Hotham, 20, at 3:03 a.m. at 246 Unity Road in Benton. 

According to the Kennebec County Sheriff’s Office, Spaulding and Hotham were on an alcohol and cocaine “bender” that lasted several days. Chief Deputy Chris Read said in the news release the pair was trading insults when a friend convinced Spaulding to leave the home.

When Spaulding tried to leave, police allege Hotham shot him in the neck with a Glock 9 mm semi-automatic pistol. The pistol was secured at the scene. 

Spaulding was taken to Thayer Hospital in Waterville, then taken by LifeFlight of Maine to Maine Medical Center in Portland where he was undergoing surgery. 

Hotham was arrested at the scene on charges of domestic violence elevated aggravated assault, domestic violence aggravated assault; and domestic assault. She is being held without bail at the Kennebec County Correctional Facility. 

The Fairfield Police Department assisted the Kennebec County Sheriff’s Office, as did the Maine State Police. The Criminal Investigative Division was notified and a search warrant was issued at the residence for further evidence, the new release said.