Crime
Coweta County Fire battalion chief James Cauthen shot and killed in Alabama, suspect William Franklin charged
UPDTE: William Randall Franklin, 33, of Chambers County, AL has been booked into the Muscogee County Jail on his release from a Hospital he’d been flown to in Columbus, GA.
He’s being held on a murder warrant issued by Chambers County Alabama Sheriff’s Office for the shooting death of CCFR Battalion Chief James “Bart” Cauthen late last night as Cauthen helped the victim of a vehicle accident.
Coweta County, GA – The Coweta County community is mourning the tragic loss of Fire Battalion Chief James Bartholomew “Bart” Cauthen, who was fatally shot while attempting to assist a motorist in Alabama.
The incident occurred on Sunday, January 19, 2025, at approximately 5:00 p.m., when Cauthen stopped to help an individual whose vehicle had struck a deer on County Road 267 in the Stroud community, near U.S. Highway 431.
According to the Chambers County Sheriff’s Office, as Cauthen accompanied the driver to seek assistance from a nearby residence, the homeowner, identified as William Randall Franklin, allegedly opened fire on them without provocation.
Authorities reported that a shootout ensued, during which Cauthen was fatally wounded. The driver and Franklin also sustained injuries during the exchange of gunfire.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene and discovered Cauthen deceased. The driver and Franklin were airlifted to hospitals in Columbus and LaGrange for medical treatment.
The Chambers County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Franklin will face charges of murder upon his release from the hospital.
In a statement released by Coweta County Fire Rescue, the department expressed their profound grief over the loss of a dedicated leader and mentor.
“Tonight, Coweta Fire Rescue is devastated to hear of the loss of Battalion Chief Bart Cauthen. We lost one of our brothers, leaders, mentors, and family members to a senseless tragedy. Our hearts and prayers go out to the Cauthen family as they go through this difficult time. We ask that you keep this family in your thoughts and prayers,” the department shared via social media.
The Chambers County Sheriff’s Office described the incident as a “horrific scene” and stated that the investigation is ongoing.
At this time, it remains unclear whether any verbal exchange occurred between Cauthen, the driver, and Franklin before the gunfire erupted.
Coweta County Fire Rescue officials announced that further details regarding the investigation, as well as arrangements for Battalion Chief Cauthen’s memorial services, will be provided in the coming days.
Authorities urge anyone with additional information regarding the incident to contact the Chambers County Sheriff’s Office at (334) 864-4333.
Authorities are investigating a shooting that occurred on Northern Spy Road near Gravel Pond in Clarks Summit.
According to law enforcement officials, a female victim suffering from a gunshot wound was transported to the emergency room by her brother.
The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain under investigation.
In response to the incident, SWAT teams have been activated, as a male suspect remains inside the residence.
Law enforcement is working to secure the scene and ensure public safety.
Further details regarding the victim’s condition and the status of the suspect have not yet been released.
Authorities are urging residents to avoid the area as the situation continues to unfold.