Crime
One injured after shooting outside Wiregrass Commons Mall in Dothan
DOTHAN, AL — Authorities are investigating a shooting that occurred outside the Wiregrass Commons Mall in Dothan on Saturday afternoon, leaving one person injured.
According to Dothan Police Lieutenant Scott Owens, officers responded to reports of gunfire outside the Dillard’s department store entrance shortly after 4:00 p.m.
Upon arrival, officers located one individual suffering from a gunshot wound.
Early reports suggested that multiple people had been shot; however, Lt. Owens later confirmed that only one victim was involved in the incident.
The extent of the victim’s injuries has not yet been released, and no additional victims have been located.
Police units quickly secured the scene, and the area outside the mall was cordoned off as investigators began collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses.
As of this time, authorities have not released information regarding a potential suspect or motive.
The investigation remains active, and Dothan Police continue to urge anyone with information related to the shooting to contact the department.
Additional updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
KISSIMMEE, Fla. — A tense situation unfolded Monday afternoon at the Heritage Park Inn in Kissimmee, Florida, where law enforcement officials responded to a hostage standoff involving an armed man and a woman being held against her will inside a hotel room.
According to the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office (OCSO), deputies were called to the motel, located on Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway, just before noon following reports of a domestic disturbance that quickly escalated into a hostage situation.
Preliminary details indicate that two men—identified as brothers—were involved in a physical altercation inside one of the rooms at the Heritage Park Inn.
During the confrontation, one of the brothers reportedly threatened the other.
After the victim managed to escape, the suspect barricaded himself inside the room and took a female hostage, authorities said.
The suspect informed deputies that he was armed, prompting a large law enforcement response, including SWAT units and crisis negotiators, who immediately arrived on scene to establish communication with the man in an effort to de-escalate the situation safely.
“Hostage negotiators from OCSO have been in contact with the suspect, who has stated that he possesses a weapon,” the Sheriff’s Office confirmed in a statement.
As of the latest update, the area surrounding the motel has been secured, with deputies urging the public to avoid the vicinity while negotiations remain active. Emergency personnel, including Osceola County Fire Rescue, are also on standby as a precaution.
Authorities have not yet released the identities of those involved, and there is no confirmation of injuries at this time.
The Osceola County Sheriff’s Office continues to treat the matter as an active and evolving domestic-related hostage situation, emphasizing that the primary goal is to ensure the safety of the hostage and achieve a peaceful resolution.
Further updates will be provided as additional information becomes available.