Atmore man charged with murder following Saturday shooting

Published 4:23 pm Monday, January 15, 2024

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An Atmore man was arrested and charged with murder on Jan. 13, according to
officials.
Atmore Police Department Public Information Officer Sgt. Darrell McMann said in a release that Charles Walker, 25, of Atmore, was taken into custody early Saturday afternoon.
The arrest of Walker stems after the APD investigated the shooting of another Atmore man.
McMann said at approximately 10:55 a.m. on Jan. 13, APD officers responded to the area of Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue and Bragg Street in reference to a shots fired complaint.
“When officers arrived, they discovered Okeema McCants, 39, of Atmore, had been struck by gunfire multiple times,” McMann said. “The officers began administering first aid until relieved by MedStar Ambulance paramedics. MedStar transported Mr. McCants to Atmore Community Hospital, where he passed away as a result of his injuries.”
McMann said witnesses said McCants was driving on MLK Avenue when he stopped to try and stop a physical altercation between a group of males in the street.
“Multiple shots were fired shortly after Mr. McCants tried to intervene,” he said. “Witnesses were able to provide a description of the suspect and the vehicle he was driving.”
McMann said the suspect, Walker, was taken into custody approximately two hours later.
McMann said when Walker was taken into custody, he was in possession of a stolen handgun and he is wanted by the Jefferson County (Ala.) Sheriff’s Office for theft of property.
Walker was interviewed by investigators and charged with murder. He was then transported to the Escambia County Detention Center in Brewton.
Additionally, McMann said investigators are attempting to identify the subjects involved in the altercation. Those with information can call 251-368-9141.