Man Accused of Firing Into Occupied 18-Wheeler Calls It a ‘Random Act of Violence,’ Deputies Say

Jason Chandler of Bay Minette was arrested on November 2, 2026, and charged with discharging a firearm into an occupied vehicle. Photo credit: Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office

(BALDWIN COUNTY, Ala.) - A Bay Minette man has been arrested after allegedly firing a handgun into an occupied 18-wheeler traveling along Highway 59 on October 29 in what investigators describe as a random act of violence.

According to a November 3 press release from the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office, Jason Chandler of Bay Minette was arrested on November 2, 2026, and charged with discharging a firearm into an occupied vehicle.

The investigation began October 29 when truck driver Leon Hayden contacted authorities after hearing a loud popping sound while traveling northbound on Highway 59, north of Bay Minette. Hayden pulled off the roadway to inspect his truck and discovered what appeared to be a bullet strike. Responding deputies recovered a large-caliber projectile from the floor of the cab between the driver and passenger seats. Investigators also observed apparent bullet damage to the exterior driver’s side of the truck.

Investigators reviewed video footage obtained by Hayden’s employer, which showed a dark-colored Chevrolet Avalanche traveling southbound past the 18-wheeler around the time of the shooting. Although the vehicle’s license plate was not visible, investigators identified two distinctive white decals on the SUV’s rear window. The sheriff’s office subsequently distributed information about the vehicle to surrounding law enforcement agencies.

The Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office investigated the October 29 shooting on Highway 59 north of Bay Minette. Photo credit: Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office

On November 2, a Baldwin County deputy spotted a vehicle matching the description of the Avalanche parked at a residence. After contacting an investigator, deputies approached the property and observed a large-caliber handgun on the vehicle’s front passenger seat. 

According to the sheriff’s office, Chandler, who was identified as the homeowner, acknowledged owning the Avalanche and admitted to firing the handgun at the 18-wheeler on October 29. When questioned about his motive, Chandler reportedly offered no explanation beyond describing the shooting as a random act of violence. 

Chandler was taken into custody and charged with discharging a firearm into an occupied vehicle. The Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office described the shooting as an isolated incident and said there is no ongoing danger to the public. 

To add or correct any information to this report, please contact Neeli Faulkner at neeli.f@lead4earth.org.