Authorities Search for Suspect in Jacksonville Bank Shooting

JACKSONVILLE — Authorities are investigating a shooting at the Austin Bank on the corner Commerce and Bolton in Jacksonville Friday evening. Officials said Louise Barnett, 66, owner of Razorback Grocery, was reportedly shot in the hand and shoulder by an unknown man around 5:30 while sitting in her car, waiting to make a deposit. Officials also said a bullet grazed her neck. She was taken to a local hospital, and then flown to a Tyler hospital for surgery. Her condition is unknown. Jacksonville Police continue to search for the gunman.

According to KETK, numerous eye witnesses have described the suspect as a black male wearing a red jacket. Detectives are preparing a photo lineup for viewing by the various witnesses to positively identify the shooter. In addition, detectives will be reviewing video from Austin Bank and other surrounding businesses.

The shooting is being investigated by the Jacksonville Police Department, Tyler F.B.I. Office and the East Texas Safe Streets Gang Taskforce. The F.B.I. and Cherokee County Crime Stoppers are offering a reward for information leading to the arrest and the conviction of the suspects.

Anyone with information is asked to contact law enforcement at the following phone numbers: Jacksonville PD 903-586-2546 or the Tyler F.B.I. Office at 903-592-4301.

Business owners should be especially vigilant and report any suspicious persons or activity to the Jacksonville Police Department immediately.