A man wanted for 1st degree murder in Barlett, TN, fatally shot himself today in Gadsden, AL.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NEWS RELEASE
From: Sheriff Todd Entrekin Date: January 21, 2011
Etowah County Sheriff’s Office
WANTED MAN SHOOTS SELF
A man wanted for first degree murder in Barlett, Tennessee fatally shot himself today in Gadsden, Alabama.
66 year-old Dr. Frederick Lawrence Cole fatally wounded himself, at approximately 12:28 p.m., while deputies with the Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force were attempting to apprehend him.
He died instantly by a single gunshot in the head.
Cole was indicted on first degree murder in Shelby County, Tennessee, for an incident that occurred on December 20, 2010. He allegedly killed a female victim at an extended stay hotel.
“It is a sad occasion anytime a person loses their life,” states Sheriff Todd Entrekin. “We are grateful that our deputies were not injured in today’s incident. They entered into a very dangerous situation and walked away unharmed.”
Deputies with the Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force were unaware that Cole was armed. He was in bed, in a back bedroom of the residence.
“We participate in the Task Force because we can work in partnership with the U.S. Marshals and other agencies to locate the most dangerous criminals that we deal with,” states Sheriff Larry Amerson. “I am always concerned about our safety and more than pleased that all of our people are going home safe tonight.”
Cole, and his wife, were currently living at 711 Oakdale Drive, Gadsden, 35903.
Cole is stated to be a doctor who specializes in internal medicine and had emergency room experience. He had not practiced medicine in the area.
Agencies involved in today’s incident include: U.S. Marshal’s Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force (Etowah and Calhoun County Sheriff’s Offices, Alabama Bureau of Investigation and the Gadsden Police Department.
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Address/Location
Etowah County Sheriff's Office
827 Forrest Ave
Gadsden, AL 35901
Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 256-546-2825
Natalie Barton
Public Relations
[email protected]
256-549-8135