Dothan, Ala. (WDNews) — Dothan Police have arrested George Shelby Rice, 57, in connection with the death of Dr. Gaddis. Investigators identified Rice through video surveillance and witness statements following the incident on Honeysuckle Road.
According to a release from Lt. Scott Owens, Dr. Gaddis was retrieving items that had fallen from his vehicle when he was struck by a northbound car. Surveillance footage captured Rice’s vehicle before and after the collision. Investigators later located Rice’s vehicle at his residence, where it showed damage consistent with hitting a pedestrian. The vehicle is now undergoing forensic examination, with evidence being sent for analysis.
Authorities believe Rice was aware he had struck a person and had consumed alcohol that evening. His reckless behavior is being cited as the direct cause of Dr. Gaddis’ death. Rice has been charged with Murder and Leaving the Scene of an Accident with Injuries or Death. He is currently being held in the Houston County Jail without bond.
Notably, Rice was out on bond for a previous incident in August 2024, where he struck two pedestrians on Murphy Mill Road and fled the scene. The Houston County District Attorney’s Office has filed for revocation of that bond.
Our thoughts are with Dr. Gaddis’ family and friends during this difficult time. Authorities hope this arrest provides some measure of closure as they continue to grieve this tragedy.
