The Calhoun Police Department is searching for a Rome man accused of robbing a victim at gunpoint during an online sales transaction that ended with an exchange of gunfire.
According to Lt. Col. K.J. Carson, officers responded to the Derby Lane area around 6 p.m. on July 30 after receiving reports of shots fired. By the time officers arrived, everyone involved had left the scene.
Investigators later made contact with the victim, who returned to assist with the investigation. The victim told officers he sells items online and had arranged to purchase merchandise from a supplier identified as Diego. According to the victim, he had completed two or three previous transactions with the same individual without incident.
However, during this meeting, the victim said the suspect was acting suspiciously. After money was exchanged, the suspect allegedly pulled a handgun and robbed the victim at gunpoint.
Police say the investigation determined that both individuals exchanged gunfire, but neither person was struck.
Authorities have obtained warrants for 20-year-old Diego Escutia-Cruz of Rome, charging him with Armed Robbery, Aggravated Assault, Reckless Conduct, and additional offenses.
Investigators say attempts to locate Escutia-Cruz have been unsuccessful, and they believe he has left the area.
Police emphasized that nothing uncovered during the investigation indicates there is an ongoing threat to the public, but efforts to locate the suspect continue.
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Diego Escutia-Cruz is asked to contact the Calhoun Police Department at 706-629-1234 or call 911.