Opelika, Ala. — A man is facing serious charges following a disturbing incident that occurred Thursday morning, leaving a woman frightened and her vehicle pockmarked by gunfire. Jonathan Collins Donnan, 32, was arrested and has been charged with attempted murder, discharging a weapon into an unoccupied vehicle, and first-degree criminal mischief.
According to investigators, the violent encounter unfolded in downtown Opelika when Donnan allegedly struck the woman’s vehicle from behind on Avenue B near South 10th Street. As she exited her car to assess the damage, witnesses say Donnan accelerated, prompting her to leap onto the hood to escape being hit.
Reports suggest that after the initial impact, the victim attempted to drive away, but Donnan pursued her, allegedly trying to collide with her again. After managing to escape, she contacted law enforcement, leading to the discovery of multiple bullet holes in her car, indicating that shots had been fired after she left the area.
Simultaneously, dispatch received several calls about erratic driving near South 10th Street and Avenue B. An officer who responded to the scene identified a Nissan 350Z weaving dangerously. When stopped, Donnan was observed waving a rifle and shouting nonsensically. Authorities believe he may have been under the influence of an unknown substance at the time of his arrest.
Following his discharge from East Alabama Medical Center, where he was treated before being taken into custody, Donnan was brought to the Opelika Police Department for questioning. Law enforcement officials have indicated that they will seek the highest possible bail for Donnan, citing concerns for both the victim and the broader community’s safety.
The Opelika Police Department continues to investigate the situation and is asking anyone with additional information to come forward. Residents can contact the Detective Division at 334-705-5220 or submit tips via the Opelika Police Mobile App.