An argument between neighbors in Massachusetts about a fence between their properties ended with one man shooting the other with a handgun, authorities said.

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Investigators said Christopher Leonard, 38, was in his Randolph yard Friday evening when neighbor John Rota stopped by with his dog to discuss the fence between their properties, the GateHouse News Service reported Tuesday.

Rota told police the fence has been a point of contention between the neighbors since Leonard installed it.

"Leonard continued to argue about the fence and came closer to Rota. Rota said that when Leonard came close to him he told him, 'If you want to fight me, go ahead and hit me,'" a police report said.

The report said Leonard struck Rota on the side of the head and he responded by throwing a beer can at Leonard. Leonard then pulled a gun from his waistband and shot Rota in the abdomen, police said.

Rota was treated and released at a local hospital.

Leonard was arrested and charged with armed assault with intent to murder, discharging a firearm within 500 feet of a building and improper storage of a firearm. Police said they found numerous guns in Leonard's home and the man had permits to own the weapons. He was released on $20,000 bail.