Wesley Blake Bowen dies in fatal Dothan, Alabama shooting

Wesley Blake Bowen dies in fatal Dothan, Alabama shooting
Fatal Dothan, Alabama shooting death of Wesley Blake Bowen – Obituary

Wesley Blake Bowen, 33, of Dothan, Alabama, was found dead Thursday morning following an incident that began with a shooting and ended when a vehicle crashed into a retention pond along Ross Clark Circle, according to police.

The Dothan Communications Center received multiple calls just before 10:00 a.m. on January 30, 2026, reporting a vehicle submerged in a pond in the 2700 block of Ross Clark Circle. First responders arrived and attempted to check on the occupant inside the vehicle, but it quickly became clear the individual had already died.

During a closer examination at the scene, officers discovered Bowen had suffered a fatal gunshot wound. While securing the area, witnesses told investigators they saw a Black male fleeing from the scene on foot shortly after the crash.

As police canvassed nearby neighborhoods, officers located a man on Stonewood Drive behind Farrah Circle who matched the description provided by witnesses and nearby surveillance footage. The individual was identified as Michael Tywuan Taylor, 24, of Ozark, Alabama. Officers also recovered a jacket and a handgun in the area where Taylor was found.

Investigators believe Bowen was driving his vehicle with Taylor as a passenger when a suspected robbery took place. Authorities say Taylor allegedly produced a firearm and shot Bowen while the vehicle was in motion. After Bowen was incapacitated, the car continued forward and entered the retention pond.

Taylor has been charged with capital murder during a robbery and is currently being held without bond. Police credited assistance from community members for helping locate and arrest the suspect.

Bowen was pronounced dead at the scene. Law enforcement officials extended condolences to Bowen’s family and friends as they mourn his loss.

Anyone with additional information related to this case is asked to contact the Dothan Police Department, Central Alabama CrimeStoppers, or submit tips anonymously through the P3 Tips system.