MACON, Ga. — Authorities are investigating a deputy-involved shooting that resulted in the death of Joshua Epps, 35, on Saturday evening in Macon, prompting multiple reviews and leaving family members, friends, and community residents seeking answers about the circumstances surrounding the incident.
According to the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched to the 5800 block of Bloomfield Road at approximately 8:43 p.m. after receiving a 911 call reporting that an individual had been injured during a disturbance at a residence.
Upon arrival, deputies located a 51-year-old man who authorities say had sustained injuries during an altercation. Investigators reported that the victim had allegedly been attacked with a pair of scissors and was treated at the scene for injuries that were not considered life-threatening.
Officials stated that deputies then encountered Joshua Epps, who was reportedly armed with scissors at the time. According to preliminary information released by authorities, deputies repeatedly instructed Epps to drop the weapon. Investigators allege that Epps advanced toward one of the deputies despite those commands.
During the encounter, a deputy discharged a firearm, striking Epps. Emergency medical personnel responded and transported him to a local hospital for treatment. Despite lifesaving efforts, Epps later died from his injuries.
No deputies were reported injured during the incident.
The shooting has triggered a series of investigations, which is standard procedure in officer-involved use-of-force incidents. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has been requested to conduct an independent review of the circumstances surrounding the shooting, while the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office Internal Affairs Division has launched its own administrative investigation.
Officials confirmed that the deputy involved has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of those reviews.
Investigators have indicated that the incident appears to have originated from a domestic-related disturbance, though authorities continue working to establish a complete timeline of events. Detectives are expected to review physical evidence, witness statements, and any available recordings as part of the ongoing investigation.
The incident drew a significant law enforcement response to the Bloomfield Road area, where neighbors reported seeing emergency vehicles and hearing gunfire before authorities secured the scene. The activity prompted concern among residents as investigators worked through the night.
As inquiries continue, officials have urged the public to allow investigators time to gather facts and complete a thorough review of the incident.
Meanwhile, family members, friends, and members of the Macon community are remembering Joshua Epps and reflecting on his life as they cope with the loss and await additional information regarding the events that led to the fatal encounter.
Authorities have not announced when further findings from the investigation may be released.
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