Suspect shot during altercation with police officer

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FOLEY - At approximately 12:30 a.m. on Dec. 1, a uniformed patrol officer initiated a traffic stop for Improper Lane Usage in the area of Brinks Willis Road and James Road. The vehicle’s passenger was acting suspiciously, and fled on foot once the vehicle was stopped. The officer deployed his Taser, but was unsuccessful. The offender, James Walker Stewart, 33, continued to elude the officer. When the officer attempted to apprehend Stewart, a fight ensued. During the fight, Stewart attempted to take the officer’s gun. The officer discharged his weapon, striking Stewart. Stewart was taken via ambulance to USA Hospital where he underwent surgery and is expected to live. The officer suffered minor injuries.

Stewart has been charged with Attempt to Elude misdemeanor, Resisting Arrest misdemeanor, Assault second degree, and Possession of Controlled Substance felony. It was discovered Stewart has felony warrants out of the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office that are unrelated to this incident.

The officer has been placed on administrative leave with pay pending investigation as per protocol.

Chief David Wilson has requested the Baldwin County Major Crimes Unit, a multi-agency task force, to investigate the incident. This case is still under investigation, with further updates coming from the Baldwin County Major Crimes Unit directly. No further information has been released at this time.