GBI Investigating Officer-Involved Shooting in West Point, Troup County
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) has launched an investigation into an officer-involved shooting at the request of the Troup County Sheriff’s Office. The incident occurred in West Point, Troup County, Georgia, resulting in the death of 52-year-old Russell Jason Heiser of West Point.
Preliminary information reveals that on Thursday, March 7, 2024, around 9:30 p.m., deputies from the Troup County Sheriff’s Office responded to a domestic disturbance call in the 1100 block of Shoemaker Road in West Point. Upon arrival, deputies encountered Heiser, who was armed with a gun, at the residence.
Negotiations ensued between deputies and Heiser in an attempt to de-escalate the situation. Multiple individuals were safely evacuated from the home while a standoff unfolded between Heiser and law enforcement.
During the standoff, Heiser initially relinquished the firearm but subsequently retrieved it and aimed it at deputies. In response, two deputies discharged their firearms, prompting Heiser to retreat into the residence. Shortly after, a single gunshot was heard from inside the home.
Deputies provided immediate first aid on the scene before Heiser was transported to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
The deceased will undergo an autopsy at the GBI Medical Examiner’s Office in Atlanta as part of the ongoing investigation. No deputies sustained injuries during the incident.
Further details regarding the circumstances surrounding the shooting are pending as the investigation continues.
This investigation is active and ongoing. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the GBI Regional Investigative Field Office in Columbus at 706-565-7888. 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.
The GBI will conduct an independent investigation. Once complete, the case file will be given to the Coweta Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office for review.
