DOTHAN, Ala. — A man accused of fatally shooting a woman in Dothan is now in custody, and court records reveal a troubling history of abuse and violence that dates back several years. Dustin Rigsbee, 38, was arrested following a tense three-hour standoff with law enforcement in Jack, Alabama, after authorities say he fled to his mother’s house after the shooting.
According to police reports, Rigsbee was heavily armed, wearing body armor and carrying an AR-15 rifle and a knife. After the shooting, he fled into the woods behind his mother’s residence, prompting a large-scale search involving more than 50 law enforcement officers, including teams from the State Bureau of Investigation, Coffee County District Attorney’s Office, and tracking dogs. After hours of negotiation, deputies were able to talk Rigsbee into surrendering peacefully.
Rigsbee’s ex-wife, who was not the victim in this case, had previously accused him of physical abuse in 2021. Court documents show that she alleged Rigsbee slapped and choked her in front of their three children while they were preparing for school. The abuse left her with bruises and injuries, according to her statement. She further claimed that Rigsbee had repeatedly threatened to kill her throughout their marriage. The abuse led to the couple’s divorce in December 2021, though court proceedings continued until January 2025.
Sheriff Scott Byrd confirmed that law enforcement agencies had mobilized swiftly in the search for Rigsbee, whose arrest has brought some closure to the investigation. “We were determined to bring him into custody, and we are grateful for the teamwork and resources that made this possible,” Byrd said.
Rigsbee is currently being held in the Dale County Jail without bond, pending an Aniah’s Law hearing, which could determine if he remains in custody during legal proceedings. The authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the woman’s death and the events leading up to the standoff.
As the investigation unfolds, the community remains shaken by the violence and the troubling history of domestic abuse tied to Rigsbee. The case underscores the dangers that victims of domestic violence often face, even after leaving abusive relationships.
The name of the victim in the shooting has not been publicly released pending further investigation and notification of family members. Authorities have vowed to continue their efforts to ensure justice is served.
