Deputy killed and another injured during traffic stop shooting in Georgia
- Two Columbia County deputies were shot during a traffic stop on Saturday evening.
- The incident resulted in one deputy's death and another being hospitalized.
- Local officials and the community expressed grief and support for the fallen officer.
On the evening of Saturday, April 26, 2025, a tragic incident occurred in Evans, Georgia, where two Columbia County deputies were shot during a routine traffic stop. According to law enforcement officials, one deputy was confirmed dead while the other was transported to a nearby hospital with injuries. The shooting took place near Mile Marker 194 off Belair Road, prompting an extensive manhunt for the suspect, identified as James Blake Montgomery. Helicopters and drones were deployed in the search, and efforts were made to secure the surrounding area. James Blake Montgomery, who had prior legal issues, including a felony aggravated assault charge in December 2022 from which he was later exonerated, was the individual sought by law enforcement following the shooting. Officials initially reported that no arrests had been made by later in the evening, although it was confirmed that Montgomery was "no longer a threat." The incident sparked reactions from local and state officials, including Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, who issued a heartfelt statement expressing condolences for the fallen deputy and support for the injured officer. As news of the shooting spread, local government leaders, such as Augusta Mayor Garnett Johnson, took to social media to share their sorrow and extend prayers to the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office and the affected families. The serious nature of this incident highlights the dangers faced by law enforcement officers daily as they work to protect their communities. The Columbia County Sheriff's Office has reportedly taken the lead in the investigation, with support from the Georgia State Patrol. This tragic event serves as a reminder of the risks that first responders face in the line of duty, invoking a strong emotional response from the community as they come to terms with the loss of one of their own. As investigations continue, further details regarding the motives and circumstances surrounding the shooting are anticipated, adding more context to an already heart-wrenching narrative for those involved and the wider community.