Daphne Police searching for suspect in Friday shooting

DAPHNE, Ala. (WKRG) — Officers with the Daphne Police Department are searching for a man after he allegedly fled the scene of a shooting on Friday.

Daphmont Dr. near Warren Dr. is where investigators say shots were fired Friday night just after 9 p.m. Daphne police officers arrived in the area a short time later.

“They arrived to find both parties had already left. The gunshot victim had already gone to the hospital,” said Capt. Reggie Ardis.

Capt. Ardis believes an online argument between the victim, Desmond Bradley, and the suspect, Leo Battiste, quickly turned physical when the two engaged in a fistfight that escalated when Battiste allegedly pulled out a gun, striking Bradley in his backside and leg three times. Bradley was rushed to Thomas Hospital by family members, but eventually taken to University Hospital and later released. Meanwhile, the search continues for Battiste.

“We are taking any information about Mr. Battiste’s whereabouts. We do need to talk to him and get his version of the story, because right now we only have one and we prefer to have both,” Ardis explained.

Capt. Ardis says the two men know each other, but at this time investigators aren’t sure if Battiste is still in the area. He’s urging anyone with information to call the department right away.

“We’d like him to come on in and make it easy. This is not going away,” he added.

The victim was released from the hospital Saturday morning. Police say he’s cooperating with the investigation.

2 men arrested in counterfeit currency scheme at Foley Tanger Outlets: Police

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRG News 5.