Suspect dead in deputy-involved shooting in Lee County
LEE COUNTY, Ala. (WAKA) – The State Bureau of Investigation has launched a probe into an officer-involved shooting in Lee County.
The incident happened around 5:36 p.m. yesterday when deputies with the Lee County Sheriff’s Office were attempting to serve an arrest warrant for a rape charge at a home in the 900 block of County Road 188 in Loachapoka.
Investigators say the suspect, identified as 36-year-old Wilder Cobon Gomez, a Guatemalan national, fired at deputies, hitting one in the arm.
As a result, one of the deputies returned fire, fatally shooting Gomez.
The injured deputy was taken to a local hospital for treatment, while Gomez was pronounced dead on the scene.
ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor said, “Violence is never the answer. However, this marks the second law enforcement officer in Alabama this month who has been shot while carrying out his oath to protect and serve. Incidents like this serve as a stark reminder of the danger law enforcement faces each day and underscores the importance of respect and support for those who wear the badge. We are grateful the Deputy is expected to make a full recovery and continue to keep him and his family in our thoughts and prayers.”
Officials say once the investigation is complete, the findings will be turned over to the Lee County District Attorney’s Office.
