Georgia Man Arrested in Random Shooting Spree: One Dead, Suspect Hospitalized
A 21-year-old Georgia man has been arrested and will face multiple felony charges following a shooting spree in Walton County, Florida. The incident, which occurred on Thursday night, left one person dead and the suspect injured after being shot by a deputy.
According to Walton County Sheriff’s officials, there is no apparent connection or prior knowledge between the suspect, Gunner Cole of Warner Robins, Georgia, and the victims. Sheriff Michael Adkinson expressed his concern, stating that this random act of violence could happen anywhere.
The incident unfolded in Sandestin around 11 o’clock at night. Deputies were initially responding to another call nearby when they heard gunshots and quickly worked to locate the source. Deputy approached Cole, who was standing in the middle of the roadway near Heron Walk Drive and Baytowne Avenue East. However, before the deputy could exit the vehicle, the suspect turned and fired at him. In response, the deputy took cover behind his car and returned fire, neutralizing the suspect.
The deputy’s swift and decisive action prevented the situation from escalating further. Investigators estimate that between 14 to 18 rounds were fired during the incident. They praised the deputies’ response, which stopped any additional shots from being fired and prevented further loss of life or injuries.
Gunner Cole, who was taken into custody immediately, is currently hospitalized. Sheriff Adkinson stated that Cole was on vacation in the area and is believed to be connected to at least four crime scenes. Multiple cars were shot with people inside, including a burning car with a deceased individual found nearby in a wooded area close to Sacred Heart Hospital on US 98.
While the victim’s identity has not been released, authorities believe that he was familiar with the area and was attempting to reach the Sacred Heart emergency room for help. Sheriff Adkinson expressed his support for the deputy involved, confirming that he has been placed on administrative leave following standard protocol but emphasizing that the deputy’s actions were professional and in line with training.
Sheriff Adkinson also extended his gratitude to Sandestin Security for their assistance during the incident. He mentioned that they plan to release the body camera video in the future. The motive behind the crime remains undisclosed.
In summary, a Georgia man has been apprehended after a random shooting spree in Walton County, Florida. The suspect faces multiple felony charges for the incident, which resulted in one fatality. The quick response of law enforcement prevented further harm, and the deputy involved has been commended for his professional behavior. Authorities plan to release the body camera video at a later date, shedding more light on the incident.
