Henry County Sheriff’s deputies and Henry County Public Safety responded on December 31, around 5:35 p.m., to the C-Mart Bestway convenience store located at 1706 Dillons Fork Road after a 14-year-old juvenile arrived with a single gunshot wound.
The initial investigation determined that the shooting did not occur at the convenience store. Investigators later determined the incident occurred approximately one and a half miles away at the 1700 block of The Great Road.
The juvenile victim was transported from the scene and airlifted to a trauma center for further medical treatment. Currently, the victim’s condition is unknown.
Investigators have conducted multiple interviews and processed the scene and collected evidence. As a result of the investigation, two individuals were charged in connection with the incident.
Zachary T. Chenault, 22, was charged with aggravated malicious wounding, use firearm in the commission of a felony and shoot into occupied vehicle. He is being held with no bond.
Michael L. Ferguson, 20, was charged with reckless handling of firearm and brandishing firearm in connection with the incident, Ferguson’s bond was set at $5,000 unsecured.
“This is a deeply concerning incident involving a juvenile, and our investigators are working diligently to hold those responsible accountable,” said Sheriff Wayne Davis. “We will not tolerate acts of violence in our community, and we are committed to pursuing justice while ensuring the safety of our citizens.”
The investigation remains active and ongoing. Anyone with information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the Henry County Sheriff’s Office or Crime Stoppers. Information may be provided anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers at 63 CRIME or submitting tips online. Tips that lead to an arrest may be eligible for a cash reward.
