GBI Investigates Fatal Police Encounter in Cobb County, GA

UPDATE: The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) has launched an urgent investigation into a fatal police encounter involving the Cobb County Police Department that resulted in the death of a 47-year-old Dallas, Georgia man, Timothy Lyle Sheats. Authorities confirmed that the incident occurred on the evening of October 21, 2023, at approximately 6:10 p.m., following a call regarding a hit-and-run accident.

According to a GBI press release, officers responded to the scene and confronted Sheats, who was reportedly walking down the roadway. Eyewitness accounts suggest that Sheats claimed to have been shot, yet no visible injuries were found. Despite attempts by officers to ensure his safety, including a request for him to enter their patrol vehicle, Sheats declined and walked into traffic, attempting to enter a passing vehicle.

In a bid to control the escalating situation, officers deployed a taser on Sheats. Following this intervention, he was secured with the assistance of additional officers but subsequently became unresponsive. Emergency medical services (EMS) arrived shortly after and transported him to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

As the community grapples with the loss, the GBI emphasizes that its investigation is ongoing to determine the precise circumstances surrounding the incident. The findings will be submitted to the Cobb County District Attorney’s Office for further review.

The case has sparked considerable concern and questions among residents, with many seeking clarity on the actions taken by police during the encounter. Officials urge patience as they work to uncover the facts surrounding this tragic incident.

As updates develop, the GBI is committed to transparency and will provide further information to the public as it becomes available. Stay tuned for more details regarding this critical investigation.