Walton County, GA (7/27/18) - On Thursday, July 26, 2018, the GBI was requested by the Walton County Sheriff’s Office to investigate an officer involved shooting that resulted in the death of William Earnest Brooks, age 43.

Preliminary information indicates that at approximately 2:25 PM, Walton County deputies responded to a 911 call of a man riding an ATV outside of a home on Social Circle Fairplay Road, Social Circle, GA.  The caller indicated that the man had contacted the homeowner who confirmed that someone should be there to conduct yardwork, not riding an ATV.  Deputies arrived and made contact with Brooks on an ATV.  He fled and a foot chase ensued followed by a physical altercation in a field a short distance behind the house.  Preliminary information suggests that Brooks was overpowering the deputy.  The deputy drew his service weapon and fired one round.  It is unknown at this time if Brooks was struck at this point.  Brooks took the service weapon and fled deeper into the woods.  Walton Sheriff’s deputies, Social Circle police officers, Georgia State Troopers, and DNR Rangers began to arrive on scene.  Brooks was spotted in a lake, south of the original altercation site.  A GSP helicopter observed Brooks turn towards the shoreline and brandish a weapon.  At this time, multiple officers from Walton County Sheriff’s Office and one officer from Social Circle Police Department fired at Brooks who died on scene as a result of his injuries.

The deputy was transported to a local hospital where he was treated for his injuries and released.

The GBI will continue its independent investigation and once complete, it will be turned over to the Walton County District Attorney’s Office for review.

Contact Information:

Mike Ayers - Special Agent in Charge - 706/542-7901