RICHMOND COUNTY, GA — A routine traffic stop Wednesday afternoon escalated into a brief manhunt on Dean Bridge Road after a Richmond County deputy encountered a suspect who fled on foot, according to RCSO Chief of Staff Lewis Blanchard.
At approximately 3:45 p.m., a deputy attempted to pull over a vehicle near Magnolia Drive, just south of Church Street. Chief Blanchard reported that the driver exited the vehicle, dropped a firearm, retrieved it, and then fled into nearby woods, prompting immediate concern for public safety.
During the pursuit, residents in the area reported hearing three gunshots. Authorities later determined that these shots had been fired into the air by a homeowner who observed the fleeing suspect and sought to warn others of the danger. Fortunately, no one was injured during this incident.
An extensive search was launched, involving multiple law enforcement agencies working in coordination to locate the suspect. Teams included RCSO Marshals, Georgia State Patrol, Department of Natural Resources, Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Fort Gordon Police, Hephzibah Police Department, GSP Aviation, and the Georgia Department of Revenue. Canine units and aerial support were also deployed in the search effort.
Despite the extensive search, the suspect was not immediately apprehended. However, Chief Blanchard confirmed that authorities have been able to identify the individual with the assistance of technology and support from partner agencies. Warrants are expected to be issued for the suspect’s arrest.
Chief Blanchard emphasized that the situation was handled swiftly and professionally by deputies and partner agencies to ensure the safety of the public. He also thanked the community for remaining vigilant during the incident and reminded residents to report any suspicious activity.
The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the incident and urges anyone with information regarding the suspect’s whereabouts to contact local authorities.
