The Gist: The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is currently conducting an independent investigation into an incident in Decatur that led to a state trooper firing his weapon.
What Happened?: Earlier today, at about 9:15 a.m., Georgia State Patrol troopers were assisting the Atlanta Police Department in locating a stolen vehicle. The stolen vehicle, a black Jeep Grand Cherokee equipped with an air tag, was last tracked to the Columbia Drive area near I-20.
Responding troopers successfully located the jeep at the intersection of McAfee Road and Columbia Drive in Decatur.
As the troopers attempted to surround the jeep, officers say the driver accelerated and collided with the front passenger side of a trooper’s vehicle. While assisting troopers were in the process of arresting the occupants, the jeep rolled backward. In response, a trooper shot his weapon, striking the rear wheel of the jeep. Thankfully, no civilian or officer sustained any injuries during this incident.
The three occupants of the stolen vehicle attempted to flee but were immediately apprehended by law enforcement. Although a handgun was recovered from the ground near the jeep, it was determined not to have been used during the incident.
What’s Next?: Once the GBI completes its investigation, the case will be handed over to the DeKalb County District Attorney’s Office for review. As the investigation progresses, further details may emerge shedding light on the circumstances surrounding the incident. We will continue to follow the story and provide updates as they become available.
⚠️ Reminder: Crime articles contain only charges and information from police reports and law enforcement statements. Suspects and defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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