DOTHAN, Ala. — A murder investigation is underway in Dothan after a man was found dead inside a truck near the DoubleTree Hotel, prompting a heavy police presence and raising concerns among nearby businesses and residents. The discovery was made near Ross Clark Circle, close to the CarMax sign, early enough to draw the attention of passing motorists.
According to officials, the victim’s body was found inside a partially submerged truck that had come to rest in a small water-filled ditch. A wrecker was later called to the scene to pull the vehicle out of the ditch as investigators worked to document evidence. Police blocked off the area while the investigation unfolded, limiting traffic and keeping onlookers at a distance.
The Houston County Coroner’s Office responded to the scene, and sheets were held up by officers to shield the area from public view. Coroner Robert Byrd later confirmed that next of kin had been notified. Byrd identified the victim as Wesley Blake Bowen, a 33-year-old Dothan resident.
Byrd told WDNews that Bowen’s body will be transported to Montgomery for further examination to officially confirm the cause of death. While authorities have not released specific details about Bowen’s injuries, police confirmed the case is being treated as a murder investigation, indicating foul play is suspected.
As the investigation continued, officers briefly detained two individuals near a Bojangles restaurant, but both were released after questioning. Another person was also possibly detained in the Stonewood Drive area off Fortner Street. Police have not said how those individuals may be connected to the case.
According to Major Glover with the Dothan Police Department, one person of interest has been detained, but no charges have been filed at this time. Investigators are continuing to follow leads, and the department has released a photo of a man they are asking the public to help identify in connection with the case. Police say the investigation remains active and ongoing. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Dothan Police Department, as even small details could help bring clarity to Bowen’s death and move the case forward.
