A late-night drive along Interstate 65 in Giles County turned deadly after a 26-year-old Florida man was fatally shot from another vehicle, authorities said. Deputies responded around 11:30 p.m. to reports of a motor vehicle crash with injuries on the southbound lanes of I-65. What initially appeared to be a traffic accident quickly unfolded into a homicide investigation.
According to the Giles County Sheriff’s Office, deputies arrived at the scene and determined that the crash occurred after gunfire was exchanged from another vehicle. Investigators said the driver, identified as Sfenson Simeus, 26, of Lake Worth, Florida, had been traveling southbound when he was struck by gunfire. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
A passenger in the vehicle, 23-year-old Elda Simeus of Plainfield, Indiana, also suffered a gunshot wound during the incident. She was transported to a nearby medical facility for treatment and is currently listed in stable condition. Authorities have not released details about her injuries but confirmed she is expected to recover.
Sheriff’s investigators immediately secured the area and began processing the scene for evidence. Portions of the interstate were impacted as law enforcement worked through the night collecting shell casings, examining the vehicle, and searching for clues that could lead to the suspect. Officials have not yet released a description of the suspect vehicle.
Joe Purvis issued a strong statement following the deadly shooting. “This was a senseless and cowardly act of violence,” Purvis said. “The Sheriff’s Office is fully committed to identifying and apprehending the individual responsible and ensuring justice for the Simeus family.” He emphasized that investigators are dedicating all available resources to solving the case.
The investigation remains active and ongoing. Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity along Interstate 65 around the time of the shooting to come forward. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Giles County Sheriff’s Office at 931-363-3505. Law enforcement officials say even the smallest detail could be critical in bringing justice to the victim’s family.
