UPDATE: 18-year-old injured, suspect detained after shooting at Lee County gathering
An 18-year-old man is hospitalized after being shot during an overnight gathering in Lee County, according to the Lee County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies were dispatched at approximately 1:22 a.m. CDT on Saturday, July 11, 2026, to the 800 block of Lee Road 197 near Phenix City following reports of a shooting.
When deputies arrived, they found an 18-year-old male suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest. The victim was transported to Piedmont Columbus Regional and was undergoing surgery as of Saturday morning.
Authorities said a male suspect has been detained in connection with the incident.
According to investigators, a party with a large number of people was taking place at the residence when the shooting occurred. Preliminary information indicates the shooting stemmed from an altercation between individuals attending the gathering.
Deputies recovered a 9mm handgun believed to have been used in the shooting.
As of approximately 7:30 a.m., sheriff’s investigators and evidence technicians remained on the scene processing evidence. Investigators were seen collecting multiple shell casings, documenting two long guns and a backpack found at the scene, and entering and exiting a nearby residence as the investigation continued. Authorities also examined a white Toyota Camry parked near the scene.
The investigation remains active, and additional information has not yet been released.
Anyone with information about the shooting is encouraged to contact the Lee County Sheriff’s Office.
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