A man literally ran for his life Wednesday night while a gunman chased him through an Athens apartment complex, firing multiple shots.

One of those shots critically injured Clinton Patterson, Athens-Clarke County police spokesman Epifanio Rodriguez said.

The incident took place at North Grove Apartments in the 100 block of Old Hull Road.

“Early stages of the investigation indicate the victim was confronted as he entered an apartment building,” Rodriguez said. “The victim attempted to flee the confrontation and was subsequently shot.”

The gunman got away.

Patterson was taken to a local hospital in critical but stable condition, Rodriguez said.

Police are interviewing witnesses and checking video surveillance.

The gunman is described as about 5-foot-8 and in his mid-20s. Anyone with information is asked to call Detective P. Johnson at 706-613-3888 ext. 522 or Sgt. D. Norris at extension 556.

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