In a tragic turn of events, a fire chief in Alabama was shot and killed on Sunday after stopping to assist a driver who had collided with a deer. The incident occurred around 5 p.m. near County Road 267 and U.S. 431 in Stroud, Alabama, located approximately 100 miles northeast of Montgomery.
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According to the Chambers County Alabama Sheriff’s Office, deputies arrived to find three individuals suffering from gunshot wounds at the scene.
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Piecing Together the Incident
Authorities confirmed that 54-year-old James Bartholomew Cauthen, a battalion fire chief with Coweta County Fire in Georgia, tragically lost his life in the shooting.
“Early investigation indicates that Chief Cauthen was attempting to assist individuals who had struck a deer while traveling on County Road 267,” stated the Sheriff’s Office.
The shooting unfolded when William Randall Franklin, a resident of the area, allegedly opened fire on Chief Cauthen and the person involved in the deer collision. A shootout ensued, leaving all involved injured. Chief Cauthen succumbed to his injuries before deputies arrived.
Details Surrounding the Tragedy
The motive for the shooting remains unclear. Police are investigating why Franklin may have targeted Chief Cauthen and the other driver.
Franklin, who was also injured in the shootout, is currently receiving medical treatment at Piedmont Medical Center. An arrest warrant for murder has been issued, and Franklin will be taken into custody upon release.
Remembering Chief Cauthen
The Coweta County Fire Rescue expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Chief Cauthen, who had served with dedication for more than 24 years.
“Cauthen was an amazing, hard-working man with a gentle soul. Just like many of you, we have many questions as we navigate through this horrible tragedy,” the department said in a statement.
The department also extended condolences to Cauthen’s family, friends, and colleagues in the firefighting community, highlighting his legacy as a hero and public servant.
Community Mourning and Call for Justice
The community of Coweta County, Georgia, and beyond is mourning the devastating loss. Tributes continue to pour in for Chief Cauthen, a man remembered for his courage and selflessness.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact the Chambers County Alabama Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division to aid in the ongoing investigation.
A Tragic Reminder of Sacrifice
The investigation into the shooting is still active, as questions remain about the events that led to this heartbreaking tragedy. Chief Cauthen’s legacy as a hero who risked his life to help others will not be forgotten.
