A tragic incident unfolded in Columbia County, Georgia, on Saturday evening when two sheriff’s deputies were shot during a routine traffic stop, resulting in the death of one and the hospitalization of the other, local law enforcement confirmed.
The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office announced the deputy’s death around 6:30 p.m., as first reported by WRDW-TV. The second deputy, who sustained injuries in the shooting, was immediately transported to a nearby hospital. The extent of the deputy’s injuries has not yet been released.
Authorities have identified the suspect as James Blake Montgomery, who was believed to be hiding in a camper near Mile Marker 194 off Belair Road. The intense manhunt is ongoing, with helicopters and drones deployed to track the suspect’s location. Officers have focused their efforts on the Arrowood Mobile Home Community off Wrightsboro Road, where Montgomery was last believed to be hiding.
Law enforcement communications included instructions for officers to photograph the suspect if spotted inside the trailer. The community remains on high alert as police continue their search.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to express his condolences and support for the officers and their families.
The identity of the fallen deputy has not yet been publicly released, pending notification of next of kin.
Local residents have been urged to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity as the manhunt continues. Additional details are expected to be released by the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office as the investigation unfolds.
Sources By Agencies
