Man who opened fire on deputy shot in Newnan, officials say

NEWNAN, Ga. - The GBI has been called to investigate after a car theft suspect who opened fire on a sheriff's deputy was shot in Newnan, officials said.

The incident happened Sunday afternoon near International Park. According to the Coweta County Sheriff's Office, the shooting was related to a car theft that occured overnight.

Shortly after midnight, deputies said a car theft was reported at the Racetrac located at 1 Amlajack Blvd. After a brief chase, investigators said the stolen car came to a stop near the 48N mile marker at which time the suspect got out of the vehicle and took off into the woods near the interstate. A K9 was called in, but the suspect was not found.

According to the sheriff's office, the theft victim was able to identify the offender as Mario Clarke and warrants were taken out for his arrest. Deputies located Clarke around noon Sunday, where they said he took off on foot.

A deputy later pulled up on Clarke in the area of the soccer fields on International Park. When the deputy got out of his marked patrol vehicle, investigators said Clarke fired at the deputy, striking his vehicle. The deputy returned fire, striking Clarke.

Clarke was flown to Grady Hospital. He was listed in critical condition.

The GBI is now leading the investigation.

The Coweta County Sheriff's Office confirmed to FOX 5 that Clarke is the same man who opened fire on his father last month. The entire incident between father and son was captured on home surveillance cameras.

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