TARENTUM, Ala. (WDNews) — A woman and her estranged husband remain hospitalized after a shooting in Pike County’s Tarentum community that led to a gunfire exchange and a crash in Troy, according to Pike County Sheriff Russell Thomas.
Investigators have obtained a warrant charging Ronald Kelley, 59, who has been living in Brantley, with attempted murder.
Deputies received a report of a possible shooting around 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 12.
Thomas said investigators determined Kelley arrived unannounced at his estranged wife’s home, forced his way inside and shot her. The couple was separated and was not living together at the time.
A family member inside the home heard the shot, came out of a room and exchanged gunfire with Kelley, according to the sheriff. Kelley was shot during the exchange and fled in a vehicle.
The woman suffered one gunshot wound and was transported to Dothan for treatment.
Authorities issued a lookout for Kelley and his vehicle. A short time later, Troy police located him traveling into the city on U.S. 231 and attempted a traffic stop.
Kelley was subsequently involved in a crash at the intersection of U.S. 231 and Franklin Drive. He received medical treatment at the scene before being transported to a Montgomery hospital for further care.
Both remained hospitalized as of the sheriff’s Friday, Nov. 13, release.
Thomas credited the family member who intervened with helping the woman survive. He also commended responding deputies for their quick response and for providing first aid.
The sheriff recognized investigators Lt. Russ Thomas, Lt. Rhett Lolley and Capt. Sean Smith for their work on the case. He thanked Troy police, Troy Fire & Rescue, Pike County 911 Dispatch, Haynes Ambulance and District Attorney James Tarbox for their assistance.
The Pike County Sheriff’s Office and the district attorney’s office continue to investigate.
