The Wayne County Sheriff’s Office issued a statement on Friday regarding a shooting incident that occurred on Thursday,

April 16, 2026. An alleged online dispute turned violent, ending with one Wayne County man injured and another charged with Attempted First Degree Murder.

The statement issued by Sheriff Shane Fisher said that at approximately 9:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 16, the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of gunfire on David Patterson Road in southern Wayne County. The affidavit tied to the incident stated that a heated argument began on Facebook Messenger on Wednesday, April 15, with messages between two individuals escalating over a two-day period and threats being made by both parties.

Investigators said the two men agreed to meet at a secluded location on David Patterson Road at 9:30 p.m. on Thursday. When both parties arrived at the location, Matthew Morgan, age 38, of Waynesboro, reportedly exited his vehicle armed with a 9mm handgun. The other man was reportedly unarmed.

Authorities stated that Morgan fired twice, striking the victim in the arm and hip. Despite his injuries, the victim was able to drive himself away and seek medical treatment.

Matthew James Morgan was arrested on a charge of Attempted First Degree Murder and was booked into the Wayne County Jail on $100,000.00 bond. Investigation into the incident is reportedly ongoing.