Sparta, Georgia- December 13, 2018 – On Wednesday, December 12, 2018, at approximately 6:30 p.m., the GBI was requested to assist Hancock County Sheriff’s Office with a death investigation. 

Preliminary information indicates that at approximately 6:15 p.m., Hancock County Sheriff’s office deputies conducted a traffic stop on Fairmont Road in Sparta, Georgia.

During the traffic stop, a passenger in the vehicle, who was identified as Dequane Rayshun Williams, age 22, exited the vehicle and approached a deputy who recognized Williams as having an active arrest warrant.  Williams fled on foot and a second Hancock County Sheriff’s office deputy and Georgia State Patrol Trooper pursued Williams.  Williams subsequently pointed a pistol in the direction of one of the deputies.  The GSP Trooper made brief physical contact with Williams and shortly thereafter, Williams’ weapon discharged multiple times, striking Williams.  Williams died on scene.  The preliminary investigation indicates that no law enforcement officers fired their weapons during the incident and Williams’ wounds are self-inflicted.

Williams was transported to the GBI Crime Lab where final results of an autopsy are pending. 

The GBI will continue to conduct a thorough investigation concerning this incident and upon completion will turn the completed case file over to the Ocmulgee Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office for their review.

Contact Information:

Nelly Miles - Public Affairs Director - 404.270.8330