ALABAMA FIRE CHIEF BART CAUTHEN OBITUARY, DEATH, 54, FATALLY SHOT WHILE ASSISTING STRANDED DRIVER IN CHAMBERS COUNTY; WILLIAM RANDALL FRANKLIN CHARGED WITH MURDER AFTER ALLEGEDLY OPENING FIRE ON GOOD SAMARITAN AND ANOTHER DRIVER
Chambers County, Alabama – A shocking and senseless act of violence has claimed the life of Coweta County Battalion Fire Chief Bart Cauthen, 54, who was gunned down while assisting a stranded driver in Chambers County on Sunday evening.
_The Incident: A Timeline of Events_
According to the Chambers County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred shortly before 5 p.m. on County Road 267. Cauthen had stopped to assist a driver whose vehicle had struck a deer. While helping at the scene, another man, identified as William Randall Franklin, allegedly began shooting at Cauthen and the driver.
Investigators have not yet explained what sparked the violence, which escalated into a shootout. Cauthen died before deputies arrived. Franklin and the other driver were also injured and airlifted to trauma centers in LaGrange and Columbus.
_Arrest and Charges_
Authorities have charged Franklin with murder. A warrant has been issued, and he will be taken into custody after his release from Piedmont Medical Center. The investigation is ongoing, and the Chambers County Sheriff’s Office is working to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Fire Chief Bart Cauthen, who was tragically killed while performing a selfless act of kindness,” said Chambers County Sheriff, Sid Lockhart. “We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that justice is served and that those responsible for this senseless act of violence are held accountable.”
_Community Reaction and Support_
The tragic loss of Fire Chief Bart Cauthen has sent shockwaves through the community, with many residents expressing their condolences and support for the victim’s family.
“Bart Cauthen was a dedicated public servant who risked his life to help others,” said Coweta County Fire Chief, Todd Moore. “His tragic death is a reminder of the dangers that our first responders face every day, and we will miss him dearly.”
_A Life Remembered: Bart Cauthen_
Bart Cauthen, a 54-year-old resident of Coweta County, was a beloved member of his community. Friends and family members describe Cauthen as a kind, compassionate, and courageous individual who was deeply committed to his work as a firefighter.
Cauthen’s tragic passing has left an indelible mark on the lives of those who knew him, and his memory will continue to inspire and motivate others to work towards creating a safer and more compassionate community.
_Gun Violence Awareness_
The Chambers County Sheriff’s Office is urging residents to exercise caution and safety, and to always report any suspicious activity. The office is also providing resources and support for gun violence awareness.
For those affected by the incident, the Chambers County Sheriff’s Office is offering counseling services and support through its Victim Services department. Residents can access these resources by calling (334) 864-4333 or visiting the office’s website.
In addition, the Alabama Department of Public Safety is providing resources and support for gun violence awareness. Residents can access these resources by visiting the department’s website.
The community is coming together to support the family and loved ones of Bart Cauthen during this difficult time.
_ANYONE WITH INFORMATION ABOUT THIS INCIDENT IS URGED TO CONTACT THE CHAMBERS COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE AT (334) 864-4333._
