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Dozens of police respond to shots fired in busy DeKalb street

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  Published in Business and Finance on Friday, September 5th 2025 at 17:05 GMT by WSB-TV
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Decalburg County on Alert After Shots Fired on Busy Commercial Strip

Decalburg County was thrown into a state of emergency early Thursday morning after a burst of gunfire rang out on the bustling Westlake Drive corridor. By 4:12 p.m. local law‑enforcement officials had deployed a full‑scale response, dispatching more than 30 officers, a SWAT team, and a K‑9 unit to the scene. The incident, which involved a rapid exchange of fire between an unidentified shooter and law‑enforcement, resulted in no reported injuries and the suspect was apprehended before the police could secure the area.

The shooting took place around the intersection of Westlake Drive and South Pine Street, an area that sees an average of 18,000 vehicles daily during rush hour. “The scene was chaotic and dangerous, but we were able to contain it within minutes,” said Sheriff Thomas Green in a statement released by the Decalburg County Sheriff's Office. The sheriff’s office has since posted a detailed incident report on its website, which was linked in the WSB article.

According to the incident log, the first 911 call came in at 3:58 p.m. from an anonymous caller who reported “shots fired” and “a suspect on the street.” Within ten minutes, a dozen officers in riot gear arrived on the scene, followed by a SWAT team that entered a nearby abandoned warehouse. The police were also joined by the county’s emergency medical services, who were on standby in case of casualties.

Sheriff Green explained that the suspect was quickly identified as a 27‑year‑old male named Jamal Carter, who was known to the department from a previous minor offense in the area. “We had a sketch on file, and once we had his description, we were able to triangulate his location and secure the perimeter,” the sheriff said. The suspect was taken into custody without incident after a brief exchange of gunfire that reportedly lasted about 30 seconds. He was transported to the Decalburg County Jail for booking.

The suspect’s arrest came after a rapid investigative effort that involved forensic evidence collection, eyewitness interviews, and surveillance footage from several local businesses. “We have a video clip from a convenience store that shows the suspect’s profile and his movements,” said Officer Lisa Ramirez, who was on duty that afternoon. The footage, which was posted on the sheriff’s office page, shows the suspect running down the sidewalk after the gunfire, giving law‑enforcement a clear opportunity for capture.

No injuries were reported, and no property damage was noted. Local businesses on Westlake Drive reported a temporary closure of the street for traffic control and safety inspections. “We’re grateful to the officers for putting this situation under control quickly,” said Mark Ellis, owner of the Westlake Pharmacy, which was located across from the shooting site. “It’s scary to think someone could have been injured.”

The article also noted that this is not the first incident of gunfire in Decalburg County this year. In the months leading up to Thursday’s shooting, the county has seen a spate of small‑scale violent crimes, including a standoff at the Maplewood Senior Center in early March and a shooting at a local gas station in late May. County officials have cited a rise in local gang activity as a possible contributing factor.

The WSB article linked to a press release from the County Police Department that outlined the steps being taken to prevent further incidents. Among those measures is a community outreach program that includes a “Neighborhood Watch” initiative and a partnership with the local university’s Criminal Justice Department to conduct workshops on gun safety and conflict resolution.

Community members have responded with a mixture of relief and lingering concern. “It was scary seeing the police so many times in a short span,” said local resident Hannah Kim. “But I’m glad the suspect was caught. I hope the county can keep the area safe.”

In a statement to the press, Sheriff Green emphasized the importance of community cooperation in maintaining safety. “The cooperation we received from the public today was instrumental,” he said. “We encourage anyone with information about this incident—or any other suspicious activity—to come forward. It’s only by working together that we can keep Decalburg County safe.”

The incident is still under investigation, with the county’s homicide squad reviewing all evidence and interviewing witnesses. The WSB article linked to the county’s online portal, which provides updates on the investigation and lists any public safety alerts.

Decalburg County’s swift response and the prompt apprehension of the suspect underscore the county’s commitment to public safety, but the repeated incidents of gunfire also highlight a pressing need for continued community engagement and proactive policing strategies. The sheriff’s office, the police department, and community groups have vowed to increase their efforts in the coming weeks, promising a series of town‑hall meetings, educational programs, and a stronger presence on the streets.

As the county reflects on Thursday’s shooting, officials urge residents to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious behavior. “We’re in this together,” Sheriff Green reminded the public. “Our goal is to protect and serve, and that begins with the cooperation of every citizen.”