Valdosta Woman Shot, Killed by Lowndes County Deputies After Pulling Handgun

VALDOSTA, Ga. – The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is investigating a shooting involving Lowndes County sheriff’s deputies that left a 39-year-old Valdosta woman dead Tuesday night.

Denesha Latoria Miller was shot during an encounter with two deputies at about 9:41 p.m. Sept. 29 in the 700 block of East Brookwood Drive, according to preliminary information released by the GBI. No deputies were injured.

The GBI said the deputies were working in the area in an unmarked Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office SUV. Although they were in an unmarked vehicle, authorities said the deputies were wearing clothing and equipment identifying them as law enforcement officers.

According to the GBI’s preliminary account, Miller signaled to the deputies to get their attention. They stopped the SUV, and Miller approached them.

Investigators said Miller then pulled out a handgun within view of the deputies, and law enforcement opened fire.

The GBI release did not specify whether Miller pointed the gun at the deputies or fired it. It also did not say how many deputies fired, how many shots were fired or what prompted Miller to initially get their attention.

Deputies provided medical aid until emergency medical personnel arrived, according to the GBI. Miller was pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators recovered a handgun at the scene.

Miller’s body will be taken to the GBI Medical Examiner’s Office for an autopsy.

The GBI is investigating the shooting at the request of the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office. Anyone with information can contact the GBI’s Thomasville Regional Investigative Office at 229-225-4090 or submit an anonymous tip through the GBI Tipline at 800-597-TIPS (8477).