AUGUSTA — Richmond County deputy, Ceclil Ridley was killed in the line of duty during a routine patrol Tuesday night. He was 51 years old.

According to the GBI, preliminary information indicates that last night around 8:30 pm, the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit was conducting routine patrol in the area of 1713 MLK Boulevard in Augusta. Officers encountered several individuals outside of the Augusta Mart.

Police say one of the individuals, 24-year-old Alvin Theodore Hester Jr. went inside of the store. One officer approached him inside, and Hester attempted to exit the store as Ridley was entering the store.

According to the GBI, Hester shot Ridley as the officer approached him. The other officer returned fire inside the store. Hester made his way to the parking lot where he encountered another officer and raised his gun. Both officers fired at Hester, striking him.

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Hester was taken to the hospital for treatment and remains hospitalized.

Ridley was unable to return fire and died as a result of his injuries. Charges against Hester are forthcoming.

The GBI will continue its independent investigation. Once complete, it will be turned over to the Richmond County District Attorney for review.