Horse riding veterinarian shot; suspect captured in Houston County

The victim, unconfirmed as a southwest Alabama doctor, was among a group riding horses along the state line.
Earnest Jett booking photo.
Earnest Jett booking photo.(HCSO)
Published: Feb. 4, 2023 at 7:34 PM CST
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DOTHAN, Ala. (WTVY) - A person riding a horse was shot along the Florida line south of Dothan on Saturday and a Madrid, Alabama man faces charges, according to the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office.

The victim identified as Lillian, Alabama veterinarian Dr. Susan Wells by another member of the horseback riding party, according to AL.com.

The suspect is 47-year-old Earnest Jett who court records show lives near the shooting scene.

In its statement, JCSO said Jett emerged from a wooded area and fired numerous shots toward the riders. He was captured a short distance from the scene.

Dr. Wells was treated then released from a hospital Saturday, multiple reports confirmed.

Jett faces an open count of Second Degree Attempted Murder and other charges in Florida.

He is jailed in Houston County, pending extradition.

Jackson County Sheriff Donnie Edenfield expressed his appreciation to the Florida Highway Patrol, Alabama Law Enforcement Highway Patrol and Houston County Sheriff Donald Valenza and his team for their assistance taking Jett into custody.

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