05/11/2026
From the Office of DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden:
FORT PAYNE, Ala. – On Sunday, May 10th, at approximately 7:15 pm Deputies with the Dekalb County Sheriff’s Office, Dekalb Ambulance Service, and Valley Head Police Department responded to 11877 AL HWY 117 in Hammondville in regard to a 31-year-old male gunshot victim who was reporting being shot while driving on I-59 Southbound.
The original scene was secured and the victim was transported to Erlanger Baroness Hospital by DAS. Investigators with the Dekalb County Drugs and Major Crimes Unit responded to three separate scenes related to the shooting and gathered evidence and witness statements. Due to witness and victim statements, as well as evidence gathered from the scenes, we are able to say that the incident appears to be a “road-rage” related shooting that took place on I-59 Southbound near the Hammondville/Valley Head exit ramp. Multiple rounds were fired from the offender’s vehicle and at least two vehicles traveling on I-59 SB were struck by gunfire.
At this time, we have a vehicle description and direction of travel and are working with partner agencies to locate the offender. The victim struck by gunfire appears to be in stable condition and is expected to survive. This is currently an active investigation, and more information will be released at a later date.
DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden said of the incident: “Road rage incidents can escalate in just a matter of seconds and change lives forever. We are working diligently around the clock to locate the one responsible.”
“God Bless!” Concluded Sheriff Welden.
