By Tyler Pruett

tyler@southerntorch.com

Multiple persons of interest have been detained in connection with a shooting spree that damaged many local businesses in Rainsville. According to the Rainsville Police Department, at least 10 businesses were fired upon with an air rifle, beginning at approximately 10 p.m. Sunday night and continuing Monday night around 8 p.m. Businesses affected were: Topher’s Wing House, Betterway Shop, Rainsville Finance, Verizon Wireless, Mountain Lanes Bowling, Doyle Scott Construction, Penny’s From Heaven Spa, Sue and Sandy’s, and Straight Up Barbershop. Burger King also reported damage a day later on Tuesday, indicating that the shooting continued on Monday night.

The individuals in custody are all reported to be minors with identities being withheld. As no property was missing, law enforcement believes that the incident was motivated by vandalism. Rainsville police are working closely with the Dekalb County Sheriff’s Office on the investigation. Topher’s Wing House suffered the most severe damage; shattering several windows and the glass door.

No immediate charges were filed against the individuals being questioned, but investigators say that may change as the investigation evolves. “Hopefully this will deter them from bad decisions like this in the future,” said Rainsville Police Sgt. Tim Devlin, “and we really appreciate the help of the Rainsville community and the Dekalb County Sheriff’s Department for helping us to find the individuals responsible.”