The Gist: A 56-year-old man has died after a police shooting in Pickens County.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is conducting an independent investigation into the incident, which marks the 53rd officer-involved shooting the GBI has been asked to investigate this year.
What Happened?: On July 17,, at around 9 a.m., Pickens County 911 received a non-emergency call from a concerned family member regarding Norman Edward Dawson. The caller reported that Dawson had a firearm and had heard a gunshot during a phone conversation with him.
In response to the call, Pickens County deputies were dispatched to Dawson’s location on Ginger Drive in Jasper.
When they arrived, deputies encountered Dawson wearing a ballistic vest and armed with a rifle.
Despite attempts to de-escalate the situation, deputies say Dawson refused to surrender his weapon. As a result, the deputies opened fire and shot Dawson multiple times.
Dawson was immediately attended to by Pickens County EMS and swiftly transported to a local hospital. Tragically, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Why It Matters: The GBI has been asked to step in and conduct an independent investigation into the officer-involved shooting that resulted in the death of Norman Edward Dawson. Such incidents are always deeply concerning and raise important questions about the use of force and de-escalation techniques by law enforcement. The GBI investigation aims to provide an impartial assessment of the incident and ensure transparency.
What’s Next?: The GBI investigation into the incident is currently active and ongoing. Upon its completion, findings and evidence will be presented to the Appalachian Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office for review.
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