Sumter County Man Surrenders After Overnight Armed Standoff in Domestic Violence Incident

On October 14, 2025, at approximately 4:00 p.m., the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call reporting a domestic dispute with injuries at 1283 Salters Mill Road in Plains, GA. Deputies and first responders were immediately dispatched to the scene.

Upon arrival, deputies found a woman outside the residence suffering from visible injuries to her head. As they began to assist her, deputies observed a man run back inside the home carrying what appeared to be a rifle. The woman was quickly identified and turned over to first responders for treatment while deputies attempted to establish communication with the man inside.

After speaking briefly with the victim, deputies determined that no one else was in the residence and that the male suspect, identified as 42-year-old Christopher L. Pilgrim, had access to several firearms. Given the risk to public safety, deputies established a secure perimeter around the home and called for assistance from the Crisp County Sheriff’s Office SWAT Team.

Throughout the evening and into the night, negotiators worked continuously to communicate with Pilgrim in hopes of bringing the situation to a peaceful end. Nearby residents were advised to remain indoors as law enforcement maintained a safe distance while keeping the area under control.

After several hours of negotiation, the standoff ended peacefully early the following morning when Pilgrim surrendered to authorities without further incident. Deputies recovered multiple weapons from inside the residence.

The female victim was treated at the scene and later transported for additional medical care. She is expected to recover from her injuries. Pilgrim was taken into custody and is facing numerous charges, including multiple counts of terroristic threats, false imprisonment, aggravated battery, and aggravated assault.

Sumter County Sheriff Eric D. Bryant commended the efforts of his deputies and thanked the agencies that assisted in the operation, including the Americus Police Department, Sumter County Fire Rescue, Crisp County Sheriff’s Office, Dooly County Sheriff’s Office, Turner County Sheriff’s Office, Air Evac, Ameri Pro, the Georgia State Patrol, and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.

“Domestic violence calls are among the most dangerous and unpredictable situations our deputies encounter,” Sheriff Bryant said. “I am extremely proud of the professionalism and restraint shown by everyone involved, which led to a safe and peaceful resolution. I also want to thank the citizens of Sumter County for their patience and support during this incident. We remain committed to protecting our community and ensuring the safety of everyone we serve.”