Elberta, Alabama – A man has been charged with murder after authorities say he admitted to fatally shooting another man during an early morning incident in Baldwin County.
The Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office confirmed deputies responded to a shooting call around 3:35 a.m. Friday in the 12000 block of Sandy Creek Drive in Elberta. When law enforcement arrived at the scene, they discovered a man deceased from multiple gunshot wounds.
Victim Identified at the Scene
Investigators identified the victim as Charles Lee Douglas II, 40. Authorities said Douglas was pronounced dead at the location after deputies and emergency responders assessed the situation.
Officials have not yet released additional details about what led up to the shooting, but they confirmed the incident is being investigated as a homicide. The area was secured while deputies gathered evidence and interviewed individuals connected to the case.
Suspect Taken Into Custody
According to the sheriff’s office, Paul David Maxwell, described as an acquaintance of the victim, was quickly identified as the suspected shooter. Maxwell was taken into custody for questioning shortly after the incident.
During an interview with investigators, authorities said Maxwell admitted to shooting Douglas. Law enforcement did not immediately disclose a possible motive or whether the shooting stemmed from an argument or prior dispute.
Charges Filed and Detention Status
Following the interview, Maxwell was formally charged with murder. He is currently being held at the Baldwin County Corrections Center while the case moves forward through the legal system.
Key Facts:
- Deputies responded to the shooting around 3:35 a.m. Friday.
- The incident occurred in the 12000 block of Sandy Creek Drive in Elberta.
- The victim was identified as Charles Lee Douglas II, 40.
- Authorities say the suspect admitted to the shooting during questioning.
- The suspect has been charged with murder and remains in custody.
Ongoing Investigation
The Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office stated that the investigation remains active. Detectives continue to review evidence collected at the scene and are working to determine the full circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Officials have not indicated whether additional charges may be filed or if others were present at the residence when the shooting occurred. As with all criminal cases, the suspect is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Community members in the Sandy Creek Drive area may notice an increased law enforcement presence as deputies finalize their investigation and complete follow-up interviews.
Authorities have not announced a court date for Maxwell at this time. Further updates are expected as the case progresses through the judicial process.
