28-04-2025
ALEA releases information on Opelika officer involved shooting
OPELIKA, Ala. (WRBL) – The Alabama Law Enforcement agency is investigating after a domestic violence call turned into an officer-involved shooting Saturday night in Opelika.
According to investigators, officers were dispatched around 9:37 p.m. on April 26 to the 1300 block of South Long Street regarding a domestic dispute. When they arrived, they encountered a man allegedly armed with what appeared to be a firearm. During the confrontation, one officer fired their duty weapon, striking the suspect, Charles Winston, in the leg. Further investigation revealed the weapon Winston allegedly had was a full-sized replica of a Beretta 9mm handgun.
Medical aid was immediately rendered on scene. Winston, 75, of Opelika, was taken to Piedmont Columbus Regional Hospital for treatment, then released and booked into the Lee County Jail on two domestic violence charges. Additional charges are pending, according to investigators.
No officers were injured. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency's State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) is leading the investigation, which is standard protocol in officer-involved shootings. Evidence, including firearms and video, has been turned over to SBI. Findings will be presented to the Lee County District Attorney's Office and a grand jury.
Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the SBI Montgomery Field Office at (334) 676-7870.
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