HABERSHAM COUNTY, Ga. — Authorities have identified the suspect being sought following an alleged assault in south Habersham County as 41-year-old Jonathan Lee Jordan of Alto. Jordan is wanted on aggravated assault charges following an incident at his home early Thursday morning.
Deputies with the Habersham County Sheriff’s Office responded to a reported assault at a residence in the 3800 block of Mud Creek Road around 7:45 a.m. Thursday, March 12.
Investigators say Jordan ran from the home. They have been searching for him ever since.
Multiple units from the sheriff’s office, including the Uniform Patrol Division, Criminal Investigations Division, and K-9 Unit, are searching the area. Other law enforcement agencies are also assisting in the effort. Authorities are using drones and an airplane in the search.
As of noon, the sheriff’s office said investigators believe the suspect remains nearby.
“At this time, we believe the individual is still in the area and our K9’s are tracking at this time,” the sheriff’s office said. “We will continue to utilize every available tool in our attempts to locate the man.”
Officials also said weather conditions improved Thursday, allowing additional resources to join the search.
Schools on soft lockdown
As the manhunt continues, South Habersham Middle School and Level Grove Elementary School are on soft lockdown as a precaution.
“Level Grove and South Habersham were made aware of the manhunt taking place in the Mud Creek area as soon as it began, and administrators at those schools, in coordination with their SROs, implemented any needed procedures,” said Habersham County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Rob Moore.
Assistant Superintendent David Leenman said the school system is working with the Habersham County Sheriff’s Office on a dismissal plan for the affected schools.
Authorities have not released the suspect’s name.
Thursday afternoon, sheriff’s officials told Now Georgia the victim sustained superficial injuries from being choked. The suspect is not believed to be armed, but authorities caution that people “should be very cautious.” Deputies are urging residents in the Mud Creek area to remain vigilant, keep homes, vehicles, and outbuildings locked, and report any suspicious activity to 911.
Now Georgia will continue to provide updates as new information becomes available.
