By DON FLETCHER
News Staff Writer
One suspect was killed, two other suspects and a state trooper were injured, during a shootout that took place Sunday evening, April 9, after a chase that began along Interstate 65 in Conecuh County carried into northern Escambia County.
According to a press release issued by Alabama Law Enforcement Agency officials, the incident occurred at approximately 6:30 p.m. when Cpl. Jeremy Alford of ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division attempted to stop a vehicle for an unspecified traffic violation near the interstate’s 101-mile marker in Conecuh County.
The driver sped off, and a pursuit ensued that continued into Escambia County, where the vehicle eventually left the interstate and continued along Alabama 41.
The shootout reportedly occurred near Emmons Road, about eight miles north of Brewton.
One suspect was pronounced dead at the scene; two others were injured and taken to an area hospital for treatment. Alford was also struck by a bullet and was taken to an area hospital for medical treatment.
ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor later said the veteran trooper seems to be on the road to recovery.
“After visiting with Cpl. Alford and his family this morning, I am extremely relieved and thankful to share that he is doing well and is expected to make a full recovery,” Taylor said.
Special agents with ALEA’s State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) are currently investigating the shooting, and no other information was immediately available.
Once the SBI probe is complete, the findings will be turned over to the Escambia County District Attorney’s Office.
The ALEA secretary said Alford acted with “true courage and heroism over the course of the incident” and was able to secure the scene and ensure public safety while injured.
“With nearly three decades in law enforcement, Cpl. Alford is a true professional and public servant, dedicated to keeping the citizens of his local community and the State of Alabama safe,” Taylor said. “I ask that you please continue to keep Cpl. Alford and his loved ones in your thoughts and prayers as we all look forward to a speedy recovery.”