Dougherty County Coroner and Sheriff speaks out after weekend shooting at J. Lane Theater

ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) — Dougherty County officials are speaking out against the violence following the shooting at J. Lane Theater on Saturday, Oct. 10.

According to police, one person was shot in the knee.

>> 1 person shot outside J. Lane Theater Saturday night, police say <<

Dougherty County Sheriff Terron Hayes sent WALB this statement:

Last night our community experienced violence and it was unfortunate and leaves people questioning the safety of Albany & Dougherty County. Your safety and the safety of the entire community is the number one priority of the Dougherty County Sheriff’s Office. While we are left questioning motive, everyone should be aware that the perpetrator is in custody and will remain so pending further investigation and legal recourse.

I would be remiss if I did not commend the actions of Dougherty County Sheriff’s Office Deputies as well as other law enforcement personnel in the community who responded and acted with bravery and courage and prevented what would have been an even worse outcome. I remain confident in our law enforcement professionals and encourage your support of all who sacrifice in order to protect.

I wish people would consider other people because a lot of times, people are going to be affected, or somebody is going to get shot. Bullet don’t know no name. You could be having a great time, and a bullet comes from nowhere. Somebody trying to shoot somebody else and you could be an innocent standby. A person that’s trying to enjoy life and you get shot by someone that intended or wasn’t intended to shoot somebody.

Fortunately, Dougherty County Coroner Michael Fowler wasn’t called to the scene. However, he still expressed his desire for people to be more cognizant of others when gathering.

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