Three charged after fight, gunfire and police chase outside Wild Wing Cafe in Opelika
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- Three people charged after large fight, gunfire, and police chase outside Wild Wing Cafe in Opelika early Friday.
- Officers recovered firearm near Interstate 85; shooting victim declined to press charges related to incident.
Three people were charged after a large fight, gunfire and a police chase early Friday morning outside Wild Wing Cafe in Opelika, according to the Opelika Police Department.
Police said dispatchers received multiple calls at approximately 1:41 a.m. on April 17 reporting a large fight and shots fired outside the restaurant located at 3040 Capps Way.
When officers arrived, they saw a vehicle leaving the scene at a high rate of speed and attempted a traffic stop. Police said the driver refused to stop, leading officers on a brief pursuit.
The chase ended on Interstate 85 near mile marker 61, where officers detained five people inside the vehicle for questioning.
Around the same time, police said a person arrived at East Alabama Medical Center seeking treatment for a gunshot wound. Officers responded to the hospital, identified the victim and conducted an interview. However, investigators said the victim declined to press charges related to the shooting.
During the investigation at Wild Wing Cafe, officers found a red Dodge Charger in the parking lot with multiple bullet holes. Police said the vehicle belonged to the shooting victim.
Investigators also searched the pursuit route along Interstate 85 and recovered a firearm near mile marker 60. Detectives believe the weapon was thrown from the suspects’ vehicle during the chase.
Following the investigation, three of the five people detained were charged:
Devante Goodman, 28, of Auburn — Felony attempting to elude
Ashton Williams, 19, of Auburn — Minor consumption of alcohol
Stephen Harris, 26, of Auburn — Outstanding warrant through the Lee County Sheriff’s Office
The case remains under investigation.
In a statement posted to social media, Wild Wing Cafe said it was not “affiliated in any capacity” with the individuals involved and does not condone the behavior.
The restaurant said it is cooperating with investigators and providing requested information to help identify those responsible.
“All of our staff and security are safe,” the statement read. “The safety and well being of our guests and staff is our first priority.”
The business also said it plans to reevaluate late-night activities and develop a plan for improved security measures.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Opelika Police Department Detective Division at (334) 705-5220 or the Secret Witness Hotline at (334) 745-8665. Tips can also be submitted through the Opelika Police Mobile App. Anonymous tips are accepted.
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