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Tragic Shooting Claims Life of Fire Chief Cauthen

1/26/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Coweta County Fire Chief James "Bart" Cauthen, a dedicated 24-year veteran, tragically lost his life on January 19 while helping a couple whose car had collided with a deer in Alabama. In a shocking turn of events, 33-year-old William Franklin opened fire, claiming Cauthen's life at the scene. A funeral service is set for January 28 at Unity Baptist Church in Newnan, Georgia.

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Story summary

Coweta County Fire Chief James "Bart" Cauthen, a dedicated 24-year veteran, tragically lost his life on January 19 while helping a couple whose car had collided with a deer in Alabama. In a shocking turn of events, 33-year-old William Franklin opened fire, claiming Cauthen's life at the scene. A funeral service is set for January 28 at Unity Baptist Church in Newnan, Georgia.