Monday, June 23, 2008

Gunman Who Fired At Officer Inside Rotary Park Is Apprehended

   Lawrenceburg Police Chief Judy Moore reported Monday morning that the gunman who allegedly fired at a police officer inside Rotary Park Thursday night, has been apprehended.

   Members of the department launched a comprehensive investigation in the wake of the 9:45 p.m. shooting incident. Moore reported that police presence inside the park had been increased “due to a rise in criminal activity in the area.”

   She indicated that the officer was conducting a routine a check when he noticed two young black men walking through the park. She reports that the officer, “initiated a conversation with the two males. During the course of the interview the officer became suspicious of the information being given and began a safety pat down” of the subjects.

   The officer reported finding a firearm concealed in the waistband of the shorts of one of the subjects. Moore indicated that the young man began to flee and fired one round at the officer. The officer reportedly pursued the young man, firing a single round in return. Neither the officer nor the suspect sustained injuries during the exchange.

   When the officer lost sight of the young man, Moore indicates he returned to the original scene to find that the second suspect had also fled.

   Through use of photo identification the officer was able to identify the shooter as DeTarus Montrelle “D.T.” Brown, age 17, who reportedly travels back and forth between homes in Lawrenceburg and Chattanooga. Authorities gained information indicating that Brown is allegedly associated with the Skyline Pirus, a gang out of Chattanooga.

   The officer was unable to identify the second suspect, who is described as a black male, 5’10” tall, weighing approximately 155 pounds, with “shaggy” hair.

   During the weekend, Moore issued a plea for information regarding Brown’s whereabouts. She reported Monday that officers received such information on Sunday. Officers quickly made their way to Hilltop Market, located at the U.S. Highway 43 South/ Prosser Road intersection, where they apprehended him without incident.

   Brown was transported to the Lawrence County Jail, then transferred to the Maury County Juvenile Detention Facility. He is slated to appear in court regarding charges of attempted first degree murder, later this week.

   Moore points out that, “Investigation into this case is still active due to the fact that the second subject remains unidentified.” Anyone who might have information regarding the second suspect is encouraged to contact the department at 762-2276 or 762-6837.

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