(DOTHAN, Ala.) On October 18, 2024, Dothan Police Officers working security for a high school football game at Rip Hewes Stadium were flagged down by a citizen who said a child had suffered a gunshot wound in a vehicle. The vehicle was in the parking lot and officers responded to render emergency aid. The juvenile had minor swelling on the head from being struck by the bullet. The juvenile was transported to a local hospital as a precaution. An investigation was immediately launched to find out where the bullet was fired from.
Police learned that shots were fired after an altercation occurred in the 400 block of Kornegay Street moments before the juvenile was struck with the bullet. Officers responded to the area and located shell casings in the roadway. Officers contacted residents of the house. After the residence was secured, a search warrant was obtained to search for firearms and ammunition. Investigators found a 9mm carbine and ammunition that matched those found in the roadway. Two people were arrested for charges unrelated to the Rip Hewes shooting until forensic testing can be completed.
Due to the angle of the bullet entering the vehicle from the roof and the extent of the injuries to the victim believed to be from a low velocity bullet, investigators believe it is likely the bullet was fired in the air from Kornegay Street and landed where the victim was sitting. Charges for the shooting are pending until testing can be done to match the firearm located with the bullet recovered from the scene.
Firing a bullet into the air is a careless and dangerous act that is against the law. Offenders caught committing such an act will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
We offer our support and thoughts to the family involved in the senseless incident last night.
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