Suspect Named in Smith County Shooting

WHITEHOUSE Authorities say the suspect in a Wednesday evening Smith County shooting is Justin Towery, 30, of Whitehouse. Around 7:15pm, Smith County Sheriffs Office patrol deputies, and other assisting law enforcement officers responded to a 911 call regarding a man being shot in the head. Officers were able to approach the residence and carry the victim to a waiting ambulance. The victim was transported by EMS to a local hospital for treatment. His condition is unknown at this time.

Shortly after 7:45pm, officers were able to arrest the suspect after a brief search of the residence. Towery was transported to the Sheriffs Office for questioning. An attempt was made to interview Towery at the time of his arrest, but he became ill and had to be transported to a local hospital for treatment. He was admitted overnight for observation and his release was pending as of Thursday afternoon. Even though Towery was admitted to a hospital, he remained in Smith County Sheriffs Office custody with deputies at his bedside. Judge Christi Kennedy of the 241st State District Court issued the warrant for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and set bond at $200,000. At this time the investigation is ongoing, and officials say more details will be released as they become available.