Marcus Walden

VALDOSTA — A fugitive wanted in an exchange of gunfire that sent a projectile through a Thomas University window is in the Lowndes County Jail.

Marcus Walden, of Thomasville, was arrested early Wednesday morning when lawmen busted a drug deal involving Walden.

“He had a large amount of cocaine,” Capt. Maurice Holmes, Thomasville Police Department Criminal Investigations Division commander, said.

Walden was wearing a wig as a disguise, Holmes said.

The 24-year-old suspect will face charges in Valdosta before being returned to Thomasville, where he will be charged with two counts of aggravated assault, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime and reckless conduct.

Warrants were issued last week for Walden and Sharron Thompson, also an alleged suspect in the Feb. 20 shooting. Thompson surrendered Friday and was released on bond.

Holmes said Walden and Thompson were involved in gunfire between two vehicles, and one of the handgun projectiles pierced a window at the Thomas University Magnolia campus. All TU campuses were shut down temporarily. No one was injured.

In reference to Walden, Holmes said, “That is a dangerous felon off the streets and not a menace to our community.”

Senior reporter Patti Dozier can be reached at (229) 226-2400, ext. 1820