Decatur police search for library shooting suspect

Decatur police are searching for a suspect they say fired multiple shots inside of the Decatur Library, causing a victim to be rushed to a nearby hospital.

The DeKalb County Magistrate Court has issued arrest warrants for 44-year-old Decatur resident Medicus Brown for aggravated assault with the intent to murder as well as possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony. Decatur police stated that on Feb. 2, at approximately 5:10 p.m., they responded to library, located on Sycamore Street, in reference to a person shot.

“Officers located an adult male within the library suffering from a gunshot wound,” police continued. “The victim was transported to an area hospital in critical condition.”

The victim’s identity was not disclosed by police at press time.

One witness, who was in the library when the shooting occurred, said a fight broke out before the shooting. “From what I gathered while there, it started with raised voices, someone threw a punch, and then the gun came out. The person who was shot was upset about his missing phone,” stated Alisha Hester.

A staff member with The Champion arrived at the library after the shooting and observed multiple Decatur police officers on scene. The parking deck and library had been closed off to the public at that time, and no further details were provided to the reporter.

Officials announced the library would be closed on Feb. 3. “The library still has officers on scene and they are actively working the case,” stated Decatur police.

Photos of the suspect inside of the library show Brown with a black beard wearing a light-colored jean jacket and grey hooded sweatshirt.

“If anyone knows the whereabouts of Medicus Brown, please contact 911 or the Decatur Police Department at 404-373-6551,” stated police.

This is a developing story.

The Champion Editor Kathy Mitchell contributed to this article.