PRESS RELEASE

February 13, 2026

Gadsden Man Arrested in Shooting

An Etowah County man has been arrested and charged with Assault in the First Degree following a shooting incident, according to Sheriff Jonathon Horton.

Joseph Wayne Hale of Etowah County was arrested and charged with Assault 1st Degree.

On February 12, 2026, at approximately 7:36 p.m., deputies with the Etowah County Sheriff's Office were dispatched to Suburban Drive in reference to a possible shooting. Upon arrival, deputies located an adult male, on the front porch of a residence suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. The victim advised deputies that the shooter was inside a residence across the street from his location.

Due to the immediate threat to public safety, deputies proceeded to the identified residence and made contact with a Joseph Wayne Hale. Hale was detained at the scene and transported to the Investigations Office for questioning. Following the investigation, Hale was confirmed to be the offender and formally charged with Assault in the First Degree.

The victim, was airlifted to UAB Hospital due to the unknown extent of his injuries.

Hale was booked into the Etowah County Detention Center and is currently being held pending bond.

Sheriff Jonathon Horton stated, "Violent acts like this have no place in our community. I am proud of the swift response by our deputies and first responders in quickly locating the suspect and securing the scene and treating the victim. We will continue to work diligently to hold offenders accountable and keep the citizens of Etowah County safe."