Shooting Near Auxier Bridge Leaves One Injured; Suspect at Large

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Shooting Near Auxier Bridge Leaves One Injured; Suspect at Large

Prestonsburg, KY — A violent altercation near the Auxier bridge Friday afternoon escalated into a shooting, leaving one man seriously injured and launching an urgent search for the suspect.

Steven Adkins, 48, of Prestonsburg, was shot during what authorities describe as a “physical altercation” that broke out around 3 p.m. near the well-traveled bridge. Witnesses reported seeing a confrontation between Adkins and another man, later identified by police as Larry Johnson, 67, of Auxier. The nature of their dispute remains unclear, but authorities have confirmed that it quickly turned physical and ended with gunfire.

Adkins was treated on the scene by emergency responders before being transported to a nearby hospital. His current condition has not yet been released.

According to initial reports, Johnson fled the scene in a vehicle immediately after the shooting. Law enforcement officials believe he drove a short distance before abandoning the car near Jane Brown Branch, a wooded area known for its dense brush and rugged terrain. Investigators say Johnson then fled into the forest on foot, prompting a multi-agency manhunt that extended into the evening hours.

Local authorities, with assistance from K9 units and aerial support, scoured the surrounding area but have so far been unable to locate Johnson. The Floyd County Sheriff’s Department is leading the investigation and has urged residents in the Auxier and surrounding areas to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.

Johnson is considered armed and dangerous, and police are warning the public not to approach him if spotted. Instead, individuals should immediately contact 911 or the Floyd County Sheriff’s Department.

Photos of Johnson have been released to the public as authorities seek tips that might lead to his capture. He is described as a white male, 67 years old, with gray hair and a medium build. No further description of his clothing at the time of the incident has been provided.

Officials have not commented on what may have led to the altercation or whether the two men knew each other prior to Friday’s encounter. They are asking anyone who was in the area at the time or who may have seen the confrontation to come forward.

As the investigation continues, the community of Prestonsburg and surrounding areas remain on edge, anxiously awaiting updates and hoping for a swift and safe resolution.

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