Oconee drive-by shooting victim released from hospital

A Toccoa. Georgia woman who was shot in the head in a drive-by shooting on I-85 in January in Oconee County has been released from the hospital and is continuing her recovery at home.

Heather Stevanus was shot in January while her husband was driving the family home from Greenville.

It happened on I-85 SB between mile markers 1 and 2.

She was airlifted from the scene and until March 10 had been hospitalized. Her husband, Branden Stevanus, said his wife, Heather underwent multiple surgeries and was placed on a ventilator for a time.

At the ribbon cutting last Wednesday for Clear Creek apartments in Lavonia, the Rev. Wayne Marcus, pastor of Toms Creek Baptist Church in Martin credited Clear Creek Communities owner Lovell Camp and his wife Mary for their generosity in helping the Stevanus family.

“They (Lovells) were so instrumental. Them and one of the contractors the young man worked for. And they’ve been such a blessing to them,” he said. “I’m so thankful that they’re more than just about making money and building apartments but they use their money and influence to help people.”

And Rev. Marcus had some more good news to share with everyone regarding Heather’s recovery.

“She (Heather Stevanus) was at church again for the first time since that happened this last Sunday, which is a miracle from God,” Rev. Marcus said. “It’s just amazing what the Lord’s done in her life. And I just want to say thank y’all, I appreciate your helping that family out and being so kind to them.”

Meantime, Oconee County investigators continue to search for either a black or navy 2017 BMW SUV X-5 or X-6.

Authorities believe the suspect was heading south on 85.

Anyone with information on who the shooter might be is asked to contact the Oconee County, SC Sheriff’s office or your local 911.

You do not have to give your name.