A late-night welfare check in Brunswick turned into a dangerous standoff after a man opened fire on police officers at a Motel 6, according to the Glynn County Police Department.
What Happened
- When: Just after midnight on Saturday, August 30, 2025
- Where: Motel 6, 3040 Scarlett Street
- Why police were there: Officers were called to check on a possible victim of domestic violence
When patrol officers arrived, they say 58-year-old David Kevin Griffis pulled a handgun and fired several shots at them. None of the officers were hit. Three officers returned fire, and Griffis barricaded himself inside the motel room.
The Standoff
Police set up a perimeter around the motel, while negotiators tried to talk Griffis into surrendering. He refused. That’s when the SWAT team moved in, deploying CS/OC gas (a type of tear gas) to flush him out. Griffis was arrested and taken to the hospital for treatment of gas inhalation. Police confirmed he was not shot during the incident.
Who’s Investigating
- The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) is reviewing the officer-involved shooting.
- GCPD detectives are handling the aggravated assault case.
- The department’s Office of Professional Standards and Accountability will also conduct an internal review of policies.
What’s Next
The investigation is ongoing. Police are asking anyone with information to call the Glynn County Police Department at (912) 554-3645 or leave an anonymous tip with Silent Witness at (912) 264-1333.
