Jackson County Sheriff's Office Press Release:

On Tuesday, 12/29/09, at approximately 7:31 p.m., the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call from Harold Decker (71 yoa) at 2916 Maridale Road, Marianna, Florida reporting that he had just shot a man and that he needed an ambulance.

This location is the home address of Mr. Decker. Decker reported that the subject, identified as Dennis Kevin Whitehead (33 yoa), had forcibly entered into his residence through the front door.

According to witness statements, Decker’s daughter, Karen Braxton (31 yoa), and Whitehead had been in an argument at their residence in Alford earlier that morning.

Braxton had come to her parent’s house around noon and had planned to stay the night. Around 7:00 p.m. they received a call from Whitehead requesting to speak with Braxton.

When he was denied that request Whitehead stated that he was coming over to harm the family.

Approximately 30 minutes later Whitehead arrived at the residence and forced his way into the residence. An argument ensued during which time Decker shot Whitehead in the leg with a shotgun.

Also home at the time of the incident was Decker’s wife and 13-year-old grandson.

Whitehead was treated at the scene by Jackson County Fire Rescue and flown directly to Tallahassee for further medical treatment. His status at this time is unknown.

This investigation is still ongoing.