Brantley County Man Killed After Deputies Attempt Arrest, GBI Opens Investigation

NAHUNTA, Ga. — The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is investigating an officer-involved shooting that left a 37-year-old Blackshear man dead Thursday evening in Brantley County.

According to authorities, the shooting happened May 7, 2026, after deputies with the Brantley County Sheriff’s Office attempted to arrest Thomas Kenneth Bowen III on outstanding warrants at a home on Pat Harris Road.

Investigators said deputies arrived at the residence at approximately 5:35 p.m. As deputies approached, Bowen allegedly got into his truck, which was towing a boat and trailer, and fled the scene. Authorities said the pursuit continued along Pat Harris Road and Hoke Road.

Officials said Bowen eventually stopped the truck on Hoke Road, exited the vehicle, and attempted to release the trailer from the truck. Deputies approached Bowen and issued several verbal commands, according to the GBI.

After Bowen allegedly refused to comply, deputies attempted to use a Taser on him. Investigators said Bowen continued resisting, pulled a firearm from his waistband, and pointed it at deputies. Deputies then fired at Bowen, striking him.

Authorities said deputies rendered medical aid to Bowen until EMS arrived. Bowen was pronounced dead at the scene. No deputies were injured during the incident.

Bowen’s body will be transported to the GBI Crime Lab in Pooler for an autopsy.

The GBI said it will conduct an independent investigation into the shooting.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the GBI’s Regional Investigative Office in Kingsland, GA, at (912) 729-6198. Anonymous tips can also be submitted by calling 1-800-597-TIPS (8477), online at https://gbi.georgia.gov/submit-tips-online, or by downloading the See Something, Send Something mobile app.

Once the investigation is complete, the case file will be given to the Waycross Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office for review.