A traffic stop in Columbia County, Georgia, turned deadly Saturday evening when two sheriff’s deputies were shot — one fatally — by a suspect they had pulled over near Interstate 20.
According to the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, the deputies conducted a routine stop around 6:30 p.m. near Exit 194. Moments after approaching the vehicle, gunfire erupted, striking both deputies. One deputy was pronounced dead at the scene, while the other was rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition.
The suspect, identified as 30-year-old James Blake Montgomery, fled the scene immediately after the shooting. Authorities launched a massive manhunt involving local, state, and federal agencies. Helicopters, drones, and K-9 units were deployed as law enforcement scoured the area, eventually focusing on a mobile home park near Belair Road where Montgomery was believed to be hiding.
Montgomery, who had previously faced felony assault charges in 2022 but was later acquitted, remained at large for several tense hours as residents in the area were urged to shelter in place. Late Saturday night, officials confirmed that Montgomery had been taken into custody without further violence.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp released a statement offering condolences to the family of the fallen deputy and prayers for the injured officer. “Tonight, we mourn the loss of one of Georgia’s finest and pray for the swift recovery of another who was gravely wounded protecting our communities,” Kemp said. “The bravery and sacrifice of these deputies will not be forgotten.”
The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office also expressed its heartbreak in a public statement: “Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of one of our own. We ask the community to keep both families and our department in their prayers during this devastating time.”
The identities of the deputies have not yet been publicly released pending notification of their families.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the shooting, including reviewing bodycam footage and interviewing witnesses. Charges against Montgomery are expected to include murder, attempted murder, and fleeing from law enforcement.
This tragic event serves as another stark reminder of the dangers law enforcement officers face every day while serving their communities. Across Georgia, tributes have begun pouring in for the deputies, with flags ordered to fly at half-staff in honor of the fallen officer’s sacrifice.
