BAY MINETTE — The Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating an officer involved shooting that occurred the early morning hours this date.

At approximately 3am this morning deputies responded to a suspicious vehicle / burglary in progress call at Moody Electric located on HWY 31 south of Bay Minette. 2 deputies arrived on scene and began searching the perimeter of the building when they contacted a security guard. The security guard stated that the suspicious vehicle was at a barn adjacent to a residence behind Moody Electric. Deputies then traveled on foot to the vehicle. When deputies reached the barn they saw a black male. He was commanded to show his hands. The subject ran to a car located behind the barn. Deputies gave chase. When the deputies went around the side of the barn, the vehicle attempted to strike them at a high rate of speed. Both deputies were able to fire numerous rounds into the moving vehicle as they escaped from being in front of it. The vehicle continued down the road and turned north towards Bay Minette on HWY 31. It is unknown if the driver was struck by the gunfire.

Deputies then turned their attention to a black male subject fleeing into the woods. Deputies gave a brief chase but backed off and waited for addition deputies and K-9 units. A perimeter is currently set around the wooded area where deputies are searching. AST is assisting with the search with their helicopter.

The vehicle is believed to be hit numerous times. It is described as a light colored, possibly tan or silver imported vehicle. It is perhaps a Honda Accord. If anyone sees a vehicle that meets that description they are asked to contact the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office or their local police immediately.