Case closed on random Jenkins Creek shooting

Deputies have exhausted their leads and closed the case in the apparently random shooting of a 19-year-old woman.

The victim, Jessica James of Hudson, was stepping out of a spring behind Jenkins Creek when she was shot in the calf on July 20. With the assistance of her family, she was able to hobble to a nearby convenience store and call for help.

Deputies spread out in the area to search for evidence and suspects, but none were to be found. A detective was assigned to the case and his investigation supported James' assertion that the shot had come from a heavily wooded area north of the spring.

Deputies did not find any evidence such as shell casings in that area. There was no indication that anyone wished James' family harm.

Detective Philip Lakin concludes his report saying that there is no evidence to support that it was an intentional act.