GBI Investigating Fatal Officer-Involved Shooting in Athens-Clarke County

ATHENS, Ga. — A man was killed early Tuesday morning during an officer-involved shooting in Athens-Clarke County after police responded to reports of a disturbance involving a firearm, according to authorities.

The Athens-Clarke County Police Department said officers responded at approximately 12:43 a.m. on May 12, 2026, to the 1000 block of Hull Road following reports of a disturbance involving a male armed with a gun.

Initial information provided to dispatch indicated that multiple gunshots had been fired before officers arrived at the scene.

According to preliminary information released by police, officers encountered a male subject who brandished a firearm. Authorities said the man fired at least one round, and at least one officer discharged a weapon during the encounter.

The male was pronounced dead at the scene. No officers were injured, police said.

In accordance with department policy, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation will conduct an independent criminal investigation into the shooting. The department’s Office of Professional Standards will also conduct a parallel administrative review.

Police said the officer involved in the shooting has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigations.