Whitfield County Authorities Searching for Suspect in Deadly Shooting

The Whitfield County Sheriff’s Office is searching for a suspect following a fatal shooting at a residence on Princeton Way in Dalton, GA, early Thursday morning.

At 7:23 a.m. on February 1, deputies responded to the scene and launched an investigation alongside Special Agents from the Georgia Bureau of Investigations.

Investigators identified J. Puentes as the suspect and issued arrest warrants for Murder and Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime.

Puentes was last seen driving a black Chrysler 300 with Georgia license plate SIX2078. Authorities noted that the front of the vehicle has noticeable damage.

Law enforcement urges anyone with information on Puentes’s whereabouts to contact 911 or email GBI Agent Christian Johnson at christian.johnson@gbi.ga.gov. Officials warn the public not to approach Puentes and to call emergency responders immediately if he is spotted.