Albany Man Wanted After Armed Shoplifting, Store Owner Injured

ALBANY, GA – The Albany Police Department is seeking the public’s help in locating a man wanted after an armed shoplifting incident left a store owner seriously injured.

On December 28, 2025, officers were called to One Leaf at 1628 Clark Avenue after a suspect reportedly stole several alcoholic beverages while armed. When the store owner tried to intervene, an altercation occurred, and the owner was struck in the head with an object, suffering severe bleeding. The suspect then fled the scene on a bicycle.

Police have identified the suspect as 23-year-old Christopher M. Howard. He is wanted for Aggravated Assault, Possession of a Firearm during the Commission of Certain Crimes, Burglary, and Misdemeanor Theft by Shoplifting.

Authorities are asking anyone with information on Howard’s whereabouts to contact the Albany Police Department at 229-431-2100 or 229-302-0793. Tips can also be submitted anonymously via the APD app or through Crime Stoppers at 229-436-TIPS.