Marshall Police have apprehended an 18-year-old man, Earnest Lee Cooks, Jr., in connection with a shooting incident that unfolded in a Marshall neighborhood earlier today. Cooks faces charges including five counts of Aggravated Assault With a Deadly Weapon and 2 counts of Deadly Conduct Discharging a Firearm.
The incident came to the attention of Marshall Police Emergency Communications at 1:09 PM when reports of a serious situation in the 300 block of Cedar Street surfaced. According to authorities, a confrontation involving 8-10 individuals escalated into a gunfire exchange between two groups of teenagers.
The gunfire resulted in damage to multiple houses and vehicles in the vicinity. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. Officers arrived at the scene, initiating investigations and conducting interviews with witnesses.
Marshall Police Chief Cliff Carruth commended the patrol officers for their prompt response and immediate investigative efforts, leading to the arrest. Chief Carruth emphasized, "This arrest sends a clear message that we will not tolerate this senseless violence in our community."
The ongoing investigation may lead to additional charges. Individuals with information related to the incident are urged to contact the Marshall Police Department at 903-935-4575. Those wishing to remain anonymous can provide tips through Marshall/Harrison County Crime Stoppers at 903-935-9969.
