GBI Investigates Officer-Involved Shooting Amidst Gunfight in Augusta

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) has launched an inquiry into an officer-involved shooting at the behest of the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office in Augusta. The incident occurred during the early hours of Saturday, June 8, 2024, near the Sole’ restaurant on 1033 Broad Street.

Preliminary reports suggest that three Richmond County deputies, engaged in off-duty assignments at the Sole’ restaurant, responded to the sound of multiple gunshots around 1:15 a.m. Upon arrival, they encountered an individual wielding an assault pistol outside the establishment. In the ensuing confrontation, two of the deputies discharged their firearms, striking the suspect at least once. Additionally, two bystanders sustained gunshot wounds during the exchange.

Further investigation revealed that the gunfire stemmed from a conflict involving the suspect and multiple unidentified individuals, spanning a two to three-block area. The circumstances precipitating the altercation remain unknown at present. Law enforcement recovered several firearms and gathered evidence, including damage sustained by seven vehicles and nearby businesses.

The injured suspect, along with the wounded bystanders, received medical treatment at a local hospital. The apprehended suspect faces charges of aggravated assault and possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime.

The GBI will conduct an independent investigation into the incident, with findings to be forwarded to the Augusta District Attorney’s Office for review upon completion.

UPDATE: The man arrested in connection to the officer involved shooting and aggravated assault has been identified as Amazing Lee Blessed Brigham, age 19, of Hephzibah, GA. 

Brigham was charged with 2 counts of aggravated assault and 1 count of possession of a gun during the commission of a crime.