Tragic Outcome in Evans: Fatal Traffic Stop Shakes Community

Tragic Outcome in Evans: Fatal Traffic Stop Shakes Community

A Georgia sheriff’s deputy is dead and another fighting for his life after a routine traffic stop turned into a deadly confrontation with a suspect who was previously acquitted of felony charges.

At a Glance

  • Two Columbia County deputies were shot during a traffic stop in Evans, Georgia, leaving one dead and another critically wounded
  • Suspect James Blake Montgomery was located in a camper near Mile Marker 194 off Belair Road
  • Montgomery had previously faced felony aggravated assault charges in late 2022 but was acquitted
  • Authorities used helicopters and drones to locate the suspect, who is now considered “no longer a threat”
  • Georgia Governor Brian Kemp and other officials have expressed condolences to the fallen deputy’s family

Tragedy Strikes During Routine Traffic Stop

What should have been a routine Saturday afternoon traffic stop in Evans, Georgia, approximately 10 miles northwest of Augusta, ended in devastating tragedy for the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office. Two deputies were shot in the line of duty, with one making the ultimate sacrifice and another left fighting for his life in critical condition. Once again, we’re witnessing the dangers faced by the brave men and women in blue who put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities from those who have no respect for law and order.

The suspect has been identified as James Blake Montgomery, who was located in a camper near Mile Marker 194 off Belair Road. In a detail that will surely raise questions about our justice system, Montgomery had previously been charged with felony aggravated assault in December 2022 but was later exonerated. Now, a little over a year after walking free, he’s allegedly responsible for killing a law enforcement officer. The investigation is ongoing, with the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office leading efforts assisted by Georgia State Patrol.

Massive Manhunt Deployed

Following the shooting, authorities launched an extensive search operation, utilizing helicopters and drones to locate Montgomery. The search focused on the Arrowood Mobile Home Community off Wrightsboro Road. Georgia State Patrol assisted with roadblocks as law enforcement officials combed the area. Despite the severity of the incident, authorities have made no arrests but have stated that Montgomery is considered “no longer a threat” to public safety – a vague statement that leaves many questions unanswered about how justice will be served.

“Marty, the girls, and I are praying for the loved ones and colleagues of the Columbia County sheriffs deputy that has fallen in the line of duty, as well as his fellow law enforcement officer injured tonight while protecting his fellow Georgians. As they remain in our hearts and prayers, we’re also painfully reminded of why those who wear a badge have more than earned our enduring respect and appreciation.” – Gov. Brian Kemp

The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office was also involved in the response, though they did not immediately provide comments about the situation. The coordination between multiple law enforcement agencies highlights the seriousness of the incident and the community’s commitment to bringing resolution to this tragedy. Meanwhile, residents of Evans and surrounding areas have been left shocked by the violence that has disrupted their otherwise peaceful community.

Community and Officials Respond

As news of the shooting spread, officials across Georgia expressed their condolences and support for the deputies and their families. Augusta Mayor Garnett Johnson and Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr both issued statements honoring the fallen officer and supporting the injured deputy. These public expressions of solidarity reflect the deep impact this tragedy has had on the broader community, as citizens mourn the loss of a public servant who died protecting others.

“Anyone willing to put on the uniform every day in a job that’s not safe, with somebody waiting for them to come home at the end of the shift, deserves our unwavering support & continued appreciation. We join in praying for the family of this fallen Deputy, his fellow officer, & all who served with him.” – Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr

This tragic incident serves as yet another stark reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers every day. When officers initiate a traffic stop, they never know if they’re approaching a cooperative citizen or someone willing to use deadly force to avoid accountability. While families across America are enjoying their weekend, one family is now forever changed by the loss of their loved one who was simply doing his job to keep communities safe. The thin blue line has grown thinner, and another hero has fallen while defending the peace we too often take for granted.

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t’s not safe, with somebody waiting for them to come home at the end of the shift, deserves our unwavering support & continued appreciation. We join in praying for the family of this fallen Deputy, his fellow officer, & all who served with him.” … Source #2

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