Gilmer County authorities are searching for a local man they are calling a person of interest in the shooting of three people in a house on Simmons Road today.
James Michael Staff is considered armed and dangerous, according to Gilmer Sheriff's Office Capt. Frank Copeland.
He said the shooting occurred around 11 a.m. on Simmons Road, about six miles west of Ellijay. Very little information was immediately available. Copeland said authorities are still trying to piece together "why this happened and who all is involved."
Two people were seriously injured and taken by helicopter to Atlanta Medical Center. The third victim was taken to North Georgia Medical Center, Copeland said.
He said Stafford was last seen wearing jeans and a camouflage jacket. Anyone who sees him is urged not to approach, but to call 911 or 706-635-8911 and report his location.