HARTFORD, Ala. (WDHN) — Attempted murder and gunfire charges against a man accused of opening fire during a shootout at a Hartford home have been dismissed after a judge granted him immunity from prosecution, according to court documents.
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Geneva County Circuit Judge William H. Filmore filed separate orders June 24 dismissing the criminal cases against Edward Joseph Lewis.
Lewis, a process server — better known as a person who serves court documents — had been charged with attempted murder and discharging a firearm into an unoccupied building or vehicle.
According to court documents, Lewis sought immunity under an Alabama law protecting people from criminal prosecution and civil action when their use of force, including deadly force, is found to be justified.
Court documents state that Filmore “determined Lewis proved by a preponderance of the evidence that he was entitled to immunity.” The judge granted Lewis’ motions and dismissed both cases.
The one-page orders do not detail what evidence was presented or explain the circumstances that led Filmore to grant immunity.
The charges stemmed from a Nov. 14, 2024, shootout at a Hartford home, where Lewis was attempting to serve court papers. During the incident, Lewis was struck by gunfire three times.
Lewis was treated for his injuries and arrested following the shooting. Nearly 30 officers from several law enforcement agencies responded to the scene.
WDHN is awaiting a statement from Lewis and his attorney. This article will be updated with that statement.
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