Alabama Fire Chief Fatally Shot in Roadside Shootout
William Randall Franklin has been arrested for the murder of Coweta County Battalion Fire Chief James Bartholomew Cauthen. The shooting occurred after Cauthen and a driver stopped at Franklin’s home to request assistance following a deer collision; Franklin allegedly opened fire without provocation, injuring both men. Cauthen died at the scene, while the driver and Franklin survived their injuries. A motive remains under investigation, though Franklin’s family has cited mental health issues and law enforcement noted possible intoxication.
John Q. Hosedrinker