Public assistance sought in Cottage Grove homicide
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By Christa Jennings
Senior Staff Writer
The Coosa County Sheriff’s Office is seeking information from the public to help solve the county’s first homicide this year.
On Wednesday, May 1, the Sheriff’s Office dispatch received a 911 call at about 12:50 a.m. stating that shots had been fired on County Road 93 in the Cottage Grove community. Sgt. Rudd and Deputy Overton responded to the call.
While deputies were en route, dispatch stated that a male subject was laying in the roadway. Once deputies arrived on the scene, they discovered a Black male laying in the road with gunshot wounds.
Deputies contacted dispatch to request an ambulance to the scene, and Coosa County EMS responded to the call. Sheriff Michael Howell, Chief Deputy Scott Hammond and the Sheriff’s Office’s investigative team also arrived on the scene.
The victim was identified as 27-year-old David Tyrell Benson of the Cottage Grove area. Benson was transported via ambulance to Russell Medical Center in Alexander City and then transported to UAB in Birmingham.
He was later pronounced deceased at approximately 5:30 a.m. at UAB Hospital.
Sheriff Howell stated as of press time that they do not have any leads at this time. He said that he and his staff appreciate any public assistance that can help shed light on Benson’s shooting and help bring closure to the family.
Howell described the shooting as a “tragic event” and expressed his sympathy to Benson’s family.
“It is absolutely a tragedy for the victim’s family,” Howell said. “I am praying for David Benson’s family and extend my condolences to them during this difficult time.”
Anyone who has any information that may be able to assist with the investigation is asked to contact the Sheriff’s Office at 256-377-4922. Tips can also be made anonymously, and Howell is appreciative of any information that can help solve this case and bring justice in a timely manner.
