Brewton man shot, one jailed

One Brewton man was arrested and a second was transported to a Pensacola hospital suffering from a gunshot wound following an incident Monday near Crosby Street in Brewton.

Derrick Lavar Barton, 46, 771 Dixon Nursery Road, was charged with attempted murder, driving under the influence and unlawful possession of marijuana II.

Brewton Police Chief Matt Jordan said the victim, identified as Jermaine Kartell Spears, was transported to the hospital in stable condition. An update on his injuries was not available as of press time.

According to court records, Brewton police responded to the area near Crosby Street and discovered Spears suffering from a .9-mm gunshot wound in the stomach area.

Witnesses, along with police, identified Barton as the suspect and witnesses told police Barton fled the scene in a gold Chevrolet Malibu. The vehicle was spotted traveling north on Sowell Road by Brewton police who initiated a traffic stop on Sowell Road near the intersection of Spring Street.

Officers reported when they approached the vehicle they detected an odor of alcohol and marijuana coming from the vehicle and from Barton.

Barton was detained for the assault against Spears and officers reported Barton's speech was slurred and he had difficulty keeping his balance and holding his head upright. He was then arrested for DUI.

A search of the vehicle revealed a small amount of a green leafy material believed to be marijuana. Officers also found a black and silver .9-mm pistol in the center console.

Barton was transported to the Escambia County Detention center on the three charges.

During a bond hearing Tuesday before District Judge Eric Coale, Barton told the judge he wanted to hire his own attorney. Judge Coale then set Barton's bond at $125,000.