Truck Driver’s 18-Wheeler Struck By Gunfire On Highway 59 Near Bay Minette; Suspect Arrested

BAY MINETTE, Ala. (BuzzReport) — A truck driver traveling along Highway 59 near Bay Minette narrowly avoided a potentially deadly encounter after a bullet struck his 18-wheeler, prompting an investigation that led authorities to a suspect who allegedly admitted to firing a handgun at the passing commercial vehicle.

The incident occurred on October 29, 2026, when the driver reported that his 18-wheeler had been struck by gunfire while traveling along the busy highway.

According to investigators, deputies responded to the report and examined the truck, discovering damage consistent with a gunshot. During their investigation, deputies recovered a large-caliber projectile from inside the truck’s cab, providing critical evidence that a firearm had been discharged at the vehicle.

The discovery raised serious concerns about the danger posed to the truck driver and other motorists traveling along the highway.

Truck Video Helps Investigators Identify Suspect

Investigators turned to video footage from the truck in an effort to determine what happened and identify the vehicle involved in the shooting.

After reviewing the footage, investigators identified a dark-colored Chevrolet Avalanche bearing distinctive white decals. The vehicle’s appearance provided authorities with an important lead as they worked to locate the person responsible.

A request for assistance was subsequently distributed to surrounding law enforcement agencies, asking for help identifying and locating the vehicle.

The investigation soon led deputies to a Bay Minette residence, where they located a Chevrolet Avalanche matching the description obtained from the truck’s video footage.

Suspect Allegedly Admits To Shooting At 18-Wheeler

When deputies made contact with the vehicle’s owner, identified as Jason Chandler, authorities say he admitted to owning the Chevrolet Avalanche and firing a handgun at the passing 18-wheeler.

According to investigators, Chandler described the shooting as a random act and offered no motive for firing at the commercial truck.

Chandler was arrested and charged with discharging a firearm into an occupied vehicle.

The charge underscores the seriousness of the incident, which could have resulted in devastating consequences had the bullet struck the driver or caused the truck to lose control.

Authorities Say Incident Was Isolated

Despite the alarming circumstances surrounding the shooting, authorities believe the incident was isolated.

Investigators have indicated there is no ongoing threat to the public, offering reassurance to motorists who regularly travel Highway 59 and surrounding roadways in the Bay Minette area.

The case highlights the dangers of reckless firearm use, particularly when weapons are discharged toward occupied vehicles traveling along public highways.

A single gunshot directed at a moving 18-wheeler can place not only the truck driver at risk, but also other motorists who may be traveling nearby.

Authorities have not reported any additional injuries connected to the incident.

Chandler remains charged with discharging a firearm into an occupied vehicle.

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