Executive Summary
- An officer and a suspect were shot and hospitalized during a drug raid in Gadsden, Alabama, on Thursday morning.
- The incident occurred as a joint Sheriff’s Office and Police Department tactical unit executed a search warrant.
- Officials report the law enforcement team was met with gunfire upon announcing their presence at the home.
- Both the officer and the suspect were transported to a hospital for their injuries.
A law enforcement officer and a suspect were shot and subsequently hospitalized during the execution of a drug search warrant at a residence in Gadsden, Alabama, on Thursday morning. The incident occurred shortly after 5:30 a.m. when a specialized tactical unit was met with gunfire upon announcing their presence at the home.
The operation was conducted by the Joint Special Operations Group (JSOG), a countywide tactical unit comprised of SWAT teams from the Etowah County Sheriff’s Office and the Gadsden Police Department. According to sheriff’s officials, the gunfire erupted from inside the residence as the team initiated the raid.
A member of the JSOG was struck in the arm, and the suspect was also wounded during the exchange. Both individuals were transported to a local hospital for treatment. Gadsden Fire and EMS responded to the scene to provide medical aid.
Etowah County Sheriff Jonathon Horton stated that the JSOG is a highly-trained unit that confronts dangerous situations to protect the community. “Our JSOG members faced an incredibly dangerous situation today with courage and skill,” Horton said. “I am relieved the deputy is expected to be OK, and I could not be prouder of the unit’s dedication protecting this community.”
The investigation into the shooting is ongoing. It is important to note that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.