Foley, Ala. — (OBA) —  A local man taken into custody near two campuses now faces an upgraded felony charge following an investigation into reports of an armed person, prompting precautionary security measures across local school facilities. Officers responded quickly to the area to resolve the situation and secure the perimeter, while school administrators initiated safety protocols to protect students, faculty, and campus staff.

Officers with the Foley Police Department were dispatched to the intersection of 9th Avenue and South Oak Street at approximately 7:40 a.m. on November 10 after emergency dispatchers received reports of an individual armed with a firearm.

Upon arriving at the scene, law enforcement made contact with 59-year-old Gregory McGowen of Foley and detained him without incident. Responding officers determined that, at the time of initial contact, McGowen was not in possession of a dangerous instrument. However, statements and detailed testimony from victims and eyewitnesses established sufficient probable cause to arrest McGowen on a charge of menacing, a Class B misdemeanor under Alabama state law.

During a subsequent search of the surrounding area where officers had originally contacted McGowen, investigators discovered and secured a replica firearm, identified as a BB gun.

Citing the suspect's conduct and the resulting operational disruption at nearby campuses, the Foley Police Department formally charged McGowen with Making a Terrorist Threat in the First Degree, a Class B felony.

Police officials commended community members for reporting the situation promptly and providing the critical details that led to a swift apprehension. Anyone with additional information regarding this investigation is asked to contact the Foley Police Department at (251) 943-4431.