Family member arrested in Georgia after fatal shooting of Crowley ISD JROTC instructor

LOWNDES COUNTY, GA — A Georgia family member has been arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of a Crowley ISD Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps instructor.

The family member was arrested Saturday morning in Valdosta, Georgia, more than 1,000 miles away, the Fort Worth Police Department said.

Investigators believe a family member shot and killed 54-year-old Master Sergeant Gene Bass in the backyard of a Chesapeake Bay home Friday afternoon. Detectives said the suspect drove up to the residence and fired several shots before fleeing the scene in a vehicle.

Crowley ISD said Bass worked with cadets from all Crowley ISD middle and high schools, describing him as a “beloved” and “valued” member of their family.

“This is an extremely sad time for all of us, especially those who knew MSGT Bass as an instructor and friend,” the school district said in a statement. “He was an outstanding educator and colleague who touched the lives of countless students and staff.”

The family member and motive have not yet been identified.

This is an evolving story.