1 in custody, 1 sought after shots fired, overnight manhunt in Blount County
Blount County sheriff’s deputies were dispatched Sunday evening to a report of shots fired during an encounter between a property owner and individuals who had entered private property without permission. No one was injured.
Ethan Parker 
A tense overnight manhunt in Hayden has resulted in one arrest, with authorities actively searching for a second suspect following a shooting incident on Sunday evening.
The Incident
Blount County sheriff’s deputies were called to the scene after a property owner encountered individuals trespassing on private land. According to Sheriff Mark Moon, the property owner confronted the occupants of a vehicle and instructed them to vacate the area. As the vehicle pulled away, occupants inside fired multiple gunshots toward the property owner. Thankfully, no injuries were reported in the exchange.
The Manhunt
The property owner maintained contact with dispatchers while following the suspects, ultimately leading law enforcement to the Valero Truck Stop on Skyline Drive. Hayden Police officers arrived to find two suspects fleeing into nearby woods, triggering a massive search operation. Multiple agencies joined the effort, including the Warrior and Kimberly police departments, the Blount County Sheriff’s Office Special Response Team, the Alabama Emergency Management Agency drone team, and the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s aviation unit.
Investigation and Search
Authorities successfully apprehended one suspect near Interstate 65, where they recovered a firearm and evidence linked to the shooting. Investigators also discovered that the vehicle used by the suspects had been reported stolen from Birmingham. A trailer, which had been abandoned during the flight, was also recovered and is being held while police determine its ownership.
The arrested suspect has provided investigators with information regarding the identity of the second individual involved. While that suspect remains at large, Sheriff Moon confirmed that authorities have active leads and are working to secure an apprehension. This remains an ongoing investigation. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Blount County Sheriff’s Office.
Read the original report at 205focus.com.
