FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sheriff's Office Investigating Shots Fired Incident and Recovery of Stolen Vehicle

The Blount County Sheriff's Office is investigating a shots-fired incident that occurred in the Hayden area on August 2, 2026, resulting in the recovery of a stolen vehicle, the detention of one suspect, and an ongoing search for a second suspect.

Deputies responded after receiving a report of shots being fired during an encounter between a property owner and individuals who had entered private property without permission. According to the preliminary investigation, the property owner approached a vehicle and instructed the occupants that they were on private property and needed to leave. As the vehicle departed, multiple gunshots were fired from inside the vehicle toward the property owner. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

The property owner followed the suspect vehicle while maintaining contact with dispatch, ultimately providing its location at the Valero Truck Stop on Skyline Drive. Responding officers from the Hayden Police Department quickly arrived and observed two suspects fleeing into a nearby wooded area.

Law enforcement officers from multiple agencies immediately established a perimeter and conducted an extensive search of the area. Resources utilized during the search included personnel from the Warrior Police Department, Kimberly Police Department, the Blount County Sheriff's Office Special Response Team (SRT), the Alabama Emergency Management Agency drone team, and the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency aviation unit.

During the search, one suspect was located and taken into custody near Interstate 65. Investigators recovered a firearm from the suspect, along with evidence believed to be related to the shooting.

The vehicle involved in the incident was determined to have been stolen from Birmingham. Investigators also recovered a trailer that had been detached from the vehicle during the suspects' flight. The trailer has been secured while investigators are working to determine its ownership.

During the investigation, Investigators have developed leads regarding the second individual's identity, and efforts to locate and apprehend the suspect are ongoing.

The investigation remains active. Additional charges are anticipated as investigators continue processing evidence and conducting follow-up interviews. Information regarding ownership of the recovered trailer and other investigative findings will be released as they become available.

Anyone with information regarding this incident or the whereabouts of the outstanding suspect is encouraged to contact the Blount County Sheriff's Office.

No further information is being released currently due to the ongoing investigation.