*************Amended - Spelling of Mr. Stephens' last name *******************

On August 4^th, 2014, at approximately 12:35 a.m., the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office emergency dispatch center received a 911 call reporting “shots fired’ in Hallowell, which is located 9 miles west of Columbus.

Upon arrival at 425 SW 92^nd Street, officers and emergency medical personnel found the resident, identified as 20 year old William David Joseph Stephens, deceased from an apparent gunshot wound.

Witnesses at the scene provided initial statements to deputies, which led them to begin a foot search of the area for a possible suspect.

A short time later, Skyler Gurnee, age 19 of rural Columbus, was located several blocks away. 

Gurnee is currently being treated at a hospital for injuries sustained prior to law enforcement's' arrival.

At this time the investigation is ongoing. 

Although hospitalized, Gurnee is being detained by the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office on allegations associated with the incident.

All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty.