Pulaski County Sheriff’s Deputies Locate Vehicle Tied to Fatal Homicide at 161 and Jamison Intersection; Investigation Continues
Pulaski County, September 2024 – The Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office has made a significant development in an ongoing homicide investigation that has shaken the local community. After a series of intensive efforts, law enforcement officials confirmed that they have located the vehicle believed to be involved in a fatal shooting that occurred at the intersection of Highway 161 and Jamison Road. The victim, a woman whose identity has yet to be publicly disclosed, was found deceased from an apparent gunshot wound.
The homicide, which occurred in the late hours of September 27, has left the residents of Pulaski County shocked and anxious. The discovery of the vehicle is seen as a critical breakthrough in the investigation, although law enforcement authorities have stated that much more work lies ahead. Investigators are now urging members of the public who might have information regarding the incident to come forward and assist with the ongoing investigation.
The Incident: A Tragic Scene Unfolds
It all began when deputies from the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to the intersection of Highway 161 and Jamison Road following reports of gunfire in the area. According to official reports, the deputies arrived at the scene shortly after the 911 call, only to discover a horrifying sight—a lifeless woman with what appeared to be a single gunshot wound.
The initial investigation suggested that the victim, whose age and background have not yet been released pending notification of next of kin, had likely been shot either while in a vehicle or immediately upon exiting it. Authorities have since described the crime as a targeted attack, though they remain cautious about releasing too many details publicly as the investigation is still active.
The intersection of 161 and Jamison is typically a relatively quiet part of the county, making the shooting all the more shocking to locals who are unaccustomed to such violence.
Community Shocked and Worried
The news of the homicide spread quickly across Pulaski County, sparking fear and concern among local residents. Many community members described the area as a peaceful part of the county, where violent crime is uncommon.
“I couldn’t believe it when I heard about it,” said Janet Hawkins, a resident who lives just a few blocks from the scene. “This is not something you expect to happen here. It’s a quiet neighborhood; families live here, and people know each other. Now, everyone is on edge, wondering what happened and why.”
Other residents echoed similar sentiments, expressing not only shock but also fear about the safety of the area following such a violent incident.
“It’s unsettling. We’ve always felt safe here, but this really shakes that feeling,” said another local resident who asked not to be named. “I just hope the police find whoever did this, and I’m praying for the victim’s family.”
The Breakthrough: A Vehicle is Located
After combing through available evidence and following up on multiple leads, the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office announced the recovery of a vehicle that is believed to have played a key role in the crime. Authorities declined to provide specific details regarding the vehicle’s make, model, or where it was located but confirmed that the car was seized as part of the ongoing investigation.
Sheriff’s deputies had been on the lookout for the vehicle ever since witnesses reported seeing a suspicious car in the vicinity of the crime scene around the time of the shooting. The vehicle is now undergoing a thorough forensic examination by the Pulaski County Forensic Department, which includes processing it for fingerprints, DNA evidence, and ballistic residue. This analysis could provide crucial clues, potentially leading investigators to the perpetrator or perpetrators responsible for the homicide.
Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Deputy Laura Simmons said, “This is a significant development in our investigation. While we are making progress, we continue to seek the public’s help. If anyone saw anything suspicious or has any information—no matter how small they think it might be—please come forward. It could make all the difference in solving this case.”
Community Appeal: Public’s Role in the Investigation
In a public statement, the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office urged residents to remain vigilant and come forward if they have any knowledge that could assist the investigation. Even seemingly insignificant details, like seeing an unfamiliar vehicle or person in the area around the time of the crime, could help lead investigators to vital information.
“This is a collaborative effort,” said Sheriff Robert Hastings during a press briefing. “We cannot solve crimes of this magnitude alone. We rely on our community to be our eyes and ears. If you were in the area of 161 and Jamison on the night of the shooting, or if you have any information about the vehicle we’ve located, I urge you to contact our office immediately. Every tip matters.”
Sheriff Hastings emphasized that all information will be handled confidentially, and tipsters can remain anonymous if they wish. A dedicated hotline has been established for this case, and community members can also submit tips online via the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office website.
The Victim and Her Family: Grief and Uncertainty
While the identity of the victim has not yet been released to the public, sources close to the investigation have indicated that she was a resident of Pulaski County and is believed to have had no prior connection to violent crime. Authorities are in the process of notifying her family, who are reportedly devastated by the news of her sudden and tragic death.
“It’s heartbreaking. There’s nothing worse than losing a loved one to violence,” said Sheriff Hastings. “Our hearts go out to her family, and we are doing everything in our power to bring those responsible for her death to justice.”
Community members have begun organizing vigils to honor the victim and offer their support to the family. The victim’s neighbors and friends describe her as a kind and caring individual, deeply involved in local community activities.
“I’ve known her for years, and I still can’t believe this happened to her,” said one friend who asked to remain anonymous. “She was one of the nicest people you could ever meet. This shouldn’t have happened.”
Law Enforcement’s Next Steps: Forensics and Investigation
As the investigation intensifies, the Sheriff’s Office continues to work closely with state and federal law enforcement agencies to ensure no stone is left unturned. Detectives have been conducting interviews with witnesses, gathering surveillance footage from nearby businesses and homes, and examining the vehicle for further evidence.
Forensic experts are expected to take several days to analyze the car thoroughly. They will be looking for any biological or physical evidence that could link a suspect to the crime scene. This includes testing for gunshot residue, checking for DNA samples such as hair or skin cells, and reviewing any items left inside the vehicle that could provide a clue to the assailant’s identity.
Experts from the state crime lab are also expected to be involved in this phase of the investigation. The collaboration between various law enforcement agencies is seen as essential to solving the crime, especially as detectives work against the clock to ensure justice is served.
“We are committed to bringing closure to this case,” said Deputy Simmons. “It’s going to take time and careful work, but we are confident that we’ll find the answers we need.”
Community Support and Local Efforts to Improve Safety
In response to the recent tragedy, local community leaders have come together to discuss ways to improve safety in the area and prevent future incidents. While crime rates in Pulaski County are relatively low compared to other regions, this incident has served as a wake-up call for many residents.
“We need to take proactive steps to ensure this never happens again,” said Linda Osborne, a member of the Pulaski County Council. “We’re looking into options like increasing street lighting, installing more security cameras, and creating neighborhood watch programs. It’s about making our community as safe as possible.”
In addition to these efforts, the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office has increased patrols in the area, particularly in and around the intersection of Highway 161 and Jamison Road. Deputies are encouraging residents to report any suspicious activity immediately and to be mindful of their surroundings, especially at night.
Conclusion: The Road Ahead
While the discovery of the vehicle offers a glimmer of hope for the investigation, much work remains. Law enforcement officials are determined to bring the perpetrator to justice, and the community’s support is seen as crucial to solving this case. As Pulaski County comes together to mourn the loss of one of its own, there is a collective resolve to ensure that such a tragedy does not happen again.
If you have any information about this homicide or the vehicle that has been located, please contact the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office immediately. The hotline number is available on the Sheriff’s Office website, and tips can also be submitted anonymously.
Sheriff Hastings concluded his statement by reiterating his agency’s commitment: “We will not rest until we find those responsible for this heinous act. The victim’s family deserves justice, and our community deserves peace.”
