VALDOSTA – A 28-year-old Valdosta resident was arrested after shooting a firearm while driving a white Chevrolet Malibu.

Release:

Arrested: Louis Jeremiah Hill, African American male, 28 years of age, Valdosta resident

On January 8, 2024, at approximately 5:50 am., a Valdosta Police Officer was patrolling in the 900 block of McAfina Trail when he heard numerous gunshots coming from the area. He immediately began to ride the area to determine the source of the gunshots. Officers found surveillance video showing a white Chevrolet Malibu traveling through the area with a subject shooting a firearm from inside the car.  

Officers observed a vehicle matching the description of the offender vehicle driving through the area. As an officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop on the vehicle, the driver, later identified as Louis Jeremiah Hill, 28 years of age, did not stop for officers and pulled into a garage. Officers detained Hill as he stepped out of the vehicle.

Officers found an assault rifle and another firearm inside the vehicle. There was also evidence inside the vehicle, indicating that the firearms had been shot. Officers also found an open container of an alcoholic beverage in the vehicle.

After searching the area and talking with citizens, officers determined that at no time was the firearm shot towards any person or any residence.

Hill was arrested and transported to Lowndes County Jail. He has been charged with:

• Reckless conduct-misdemeanor;
• Unauthorized discharge of a firearm within 50 yards of a public highway-misdemeanor;
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol;
• Possession of an open alcohol container;
• Failure to yield right of way to emergency vehicle; and
• Driving without a valid license.

“Quick work by our officers responding to the area immediately when they heard the gunshots resulted in them finding this offender. We are extremely lucky, and thankful that no one was injured during his reckless actions with firearms.” Said Chief Leslie Manahan.