Gilmer Co. fugitive captured

ELLIJAY - An Ellijay man who had been on the run since a February 10 shootout at his home was captured by Gilmer County authorities Wednesday.

James Michael Stafford was taken into custody in the Pleasant Hill area of the county, according to authorities. Gilmer County sheriff's officials said they used a tracking dog, Daisy, in their search.

The shootout occurred when four men came to Stafford's home on Simmons Drive to collect a debt. Two of those men were shot in the head and at last report remained hospitalized. A woman at the home was shot in the leg. Authorities said Stafford took her to North Georgia Medical Center in Ellijay, dropped her off and fled.

Authorities said Stafford will face charges in the incident.