Man Wounded in I-59 Shooting Drives to Gas Station For Help, Suspect Still Missing

A man was wounded in a shooting on Interstate 59 in DeKalb County and managed to drive himself to a nearby gas station on the night of May 10 before calling 911, according to investigators.

According to DeKalb County Sheriff’s Investigator Westen Fortner, the shooting happened during an encounter between two drivers on the interstate. Authorities said one driver opened fire on another vehicle, striking the victim at least once.

The injured driver then pulled into a Fuel City gas station off I-59 shortly after the shooting and called for help/ Emergency crews were dispatched around 7:15 p.m.

The victim was immediately taken to a hospital. Fortner explained that the victim has suffered at least one gunshot wound. Officials said his injuries were not life-threatening and that he is in a stable condition. Investigators also shared that they believe he will be released from the hospital by May 11.

“His condition is stable, and he’s about to be released,” Fortner said.

Investigators have not shared the reason why the altercation happened between the two drivers, nor what could have led to the gunfire. They are also not sure if the two drivers knew each other before the incident. Authorities have also not shared where along the interstate the shooting began.

Law enforcement officers are still on the lookout for the suspect involved. Investigators said they do have a description of the vehicle connected to the shooting, but that information has not been released to the public. Fortner said the investigation remains active as they work to search for the suspect. The incident, however, has caused concern for drivers travelling through the area.

Officials are asking anyone who may have witnessed the shooting or seen suspicious activity along I-59 around the time of the incident to contact the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office.

Crimes like hit and run, shooting, and murders along the highways and interstates are getting more common. Earlier in May, a 65-year-old man, Jose Melesio, was killed after a driver struck him. Melesio was pronounced dead at the scene, and the police reported that the car was going at high speed and did not stop, fleeing the scene.

Police do not have a description of the driver, but as the investigation remains active, they are looking for any clues and tips that could lead to a revelation. There is also a reward of up to $50,00 for information that could help them find the suspect.