By Jeff Devine, Dale County Chronicle
UPDATED 2:55 p.m.
Shooting Reported Near Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue in Ozark; Armed Suspect Identified, Remains at Large
By Jeff Devine, Dale County Chronicle
OZARK — Authorities have released additional details following a reported shooting late Monday morning near Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, identifying a suspect who remains at large.
According to a press release from the Ozark Police Department, officers, along with members of the Dale County Sheriff’s Office, responded to the 700 block of Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue at approximately 11:30 a.m. on March 30 in reference to a firearm assault.
Upon arrival, authorities determined that one male subject had sustained a gunshot wound to the upper torso. The victim was transported to a local hospital for treatment and was reported to be conscious and quiet during transport. Officials have not released the victim’s identity or current condition.
Investigators say the incident stemmed from a verbal altercation between two individuals. The suspect has been identified as Jerome Darnell Johnson, a 38-year-old male who reportedly fled the scene before law enforcement’s arrival.
Johnson is known to frequent the Ozark and Clio areas and is considered armed and dangerous. Authorities advise the public not to approach him.
Anyone with information regarding Johnson’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Ozark Police Department at (334) 774-2644 or call 911.
The investigation remains ongoing, and no additional information has been released at this time. Updates will be provided as they become available.
Photo of Jerome Darnell Johnson, 38, from Ozark Police Dept.
Original Report:
OZARK — Authorities are investigating a reported shooting that occurred late Monday morning near Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue.
According to preliminary information, the incident was reported around 11:30 a.m. on March 30. Early reports indicate that a suspect allegedly shot an individual in the area before fleeing the scene on foot.
The suspect was last seen wearing jeans and is believed to possibly be armed with a revolver. Law enforcement has not yet released a detailed description or confirmed the condition of the victim.
Officers with the Ozark Police Department responded to the scene and are actively investigating. Residents in the area are encouraged to remain alert and report any suspicious activity to authorities.
This is a developing story. Once additional details are confirmed by the Ozark Police Department, updates will be provided.
It is the Dale County Chronicle’s general policy to include the following statement on all news reports involving arrests or allegations of criminal activity: in our criminal justice system, all suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
