Self-Defense Raised As Possible Motive In Fatal Shooting In Samantha

SAMANTHA, AL — The Tuscaloosa Violent Crimes Unit says a motive of self-defense is being considered in a Friday morning shooting in Samantha that left one person dead and another injured.

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Captain Marty Sellers told local media Friday evening that deputies were called about 9:40 a.m. Friday morning to a reported shooting in the 18900 block of Billy Bigham Road.

Sellers said when deputies arrived, they found two adult men suffering from gunshot wounds, with one man sustaining non-life-threatening injuries, while the other was pronounced dead at the scene.

At the scene, which was just off of Northside Road, Patch previously reported that at least five different yellow evidence markers could be seen around a Chevrolet pickup truck but no other details have been released as this time, including the identity of the individual killed.

He then said witnesses provided information regarding a possible suspect vehicle and potential suspects.

Patch confirmed the suspect vehicle was later located several miles away with a non-involved occupant on Highway 43, which led deputies and investigators to additional information that allowed them to locate the suspected shooter.

The individual was later taken into custody.

Sellers said that after interviewing all involved parties and processing the scene, investigators determined there is a claim of self-defense by the shooter that appears to be credible at this time.

Sellers also said the investigation remains ongoing and the case will be presented to a Tuscaloosa County grand jury to determine whether any criminal acts occurred.

The identity of the individual killed in the shooting is being withheld pending notification of the family.

This is a developing story. Tuscaloosa Patch will have more information as it becomes available.