Homeless Person Fatally Shot in Augusta Shootout with Deputy

A tragic incident took place in Augusta, Georgia, where a homeless individual lost their life in a shootout with a Richmond County deputy. The incident occurred on Saturday morning when the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a person with a gun in the 1200 block of Ellis Street.

Both the deputy and the homeless person sustained gunshot wounds during the confrontation. The deputy was immediately taken to the hospital for medical treatment. Sadly, the homeless person, who has not yet been identified, was pronounced dead at the scene by the Richmond County Coroner’s Office.

The incident has attracted significant attention, highlighting the ongoing issue of homelessness in Augusta. The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office has announced plans to host a town hall to address the connection between homelessness and crime in the area. This incident serves as a somber reminder of the challenges faced by individuals experiencing homelessness and the urgent need for comprehensive support and solutions.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has taken over the case, given the nature of the incident. An autopsy has been scheduled to gather further information about the circumstances surrounding the shootout.

As of now, the investigation is still ongoing, and the sheriff’s office has not released any additional details. It is a tragic event that underscores the complexity of the issues faced by both law enforcement and individuals experiencing homelessness. It is crucial for communities to come together and find compassionate and effective ways to address homelessness, ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents..