Newton Police Department is requesting assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms to help investigate a Thursday, July 4, incident that left three people injured.
Police Chief Harvey Curry said an incident at Purple Magnolia in Newton between 2:30 and 3 a.m. July 4 injured three people. While initial reports suggested the incident was a shooting, Curry said one of the victims denies a gun was involved.
“According to one, who is more credible, he wasn’t hit with a bullet,” Curry said.
The victim, Darrian Moore, told police his injuries were caused by an explosive device, Curry said. He said Moore suffered an injury to his leg and is in the hospital, where his condition is good.
To help police uncover what happened, Curry said he was asking the ATF to assist with the case.
“I’m seeking the assistance of ATF,” he said.
Police do have a suspect in the incident, but no arrests have been made, Curry said, adding he could not release the suspect’s identity at this point in the investigation. However, he said, arrests will be made.
“Some arrests are forthcoming,” he said.
Curry urged any residents with knowledge of the incident to call the Newton Police Department at 601-683-2042. Calls made after hours will be transferred to Newton County 911 dispatch and relayed to officers.
