Athens woman shot in domestic assault at Walmart, police say

ATHENS, Tenn. (WDEF) — A woman was shot on Wednesday in what Athens police believe was a domestic assault.

The incident happened in the back parking lot of the Athens Walmart.

The police department said a man and woman began arguing before the shooting, and they believe alcohol was involved.

Police added that the incident only happened inside their vehicle. It occurred when Walmart was just opening up for the day.

The incident was isolated, and no shoppers were in danger.

However, the woman was taken to a local hospital. Police responded to the hospital, where nurses said a woman had a gunshot wound to her lower extremities.

Officers also came in contact with a man who said he was with the woman when the shooting happened.

“I am proud of the quick response by the Patrol division and the information they were able to obtain on a hectic scene. The information was relayed to Detectives and a person of interest was detained quickly. This communication between the two divisions played a crucial role in locating and apprehending the suspect within minutes of the shooting. Our thoughts and prayers go out to both parties involved in this unfortunate incident,” stated Lieutenant Witt.

Special Services Division detectives are now investigating the incident.