The Gist: The GBI is investigating a police shooting in Decatur. Initial reports indicate that a suspected wanted for shooting a police K9, Geoffrey Walker, was confronted by officers but failed to comply with their commands.

In the ensuing confrontation, GBI officials say Walker fired his weapon and officers returned fire, resulting in Walker’s death. The GBI is currently conducting an independent investigation into the incident.

The Details:

The Bartow County Drug Task Force had requested the GBI’s involvement in investigating the shooting of a Bartow County K-9, which occurred the previous night. Geoffrey Walker, a 30-year-old individual with active felony warrants, was the wanted suspect.
At approximately 4:45 p.m., officers located Walker at a hotel in DeKalb County. Attempting to apprehend him, police say Walker fled through neighborhoods and into the nearby woods near the sanitation department on Leroy Scott Drive in Decatur.
Once located, officers say they repeatedly instructed Walker to drop his gun, but he refused to comply. Police say Walker proceeded to open fire, prompting officers to return fire, killing Walker.

The cause and manner of Walker’s death will be determined by a medical examiner.
The GBI will conduct a thorough and independent investigation into the incident. Once completed, the case file will be handed over to the DeKalb County District Attorney’s Office for review.
This incident marks the 79th police shooting that the GBI has been asked to investigate this year, emphasizing the significance of this ongoing issue.

What’s Next?: The GBI will continue its comprehensive investigation into the shooting in Decatur, focusing on gathering evidence and testimonies from all parties involved. The DeKalb County District Attorney’s Office will subsequently review the case file and consider potential legal actions.