HENRY COUNTY, Ga. — The Henry County Police Department says the officer involved in the deadly shooting of a 16-year-old boy in Stockbridge has been placed on administrative leave as the Georgia Bureau of Investigation continues its investigation.
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In a statement addressing community concerns, the department acknowledged questions surrounding the Nov. 3 shooting, including calls for the release of body-worn camera footage and other evidence.
The department said the evidence is being handled as part of the GBI’s independent investigation and that any potential release must be evaluated with the appropriate investigative and legal authorities.
“Investigations of this nature can take several months to complete,” the department said.
According to the GBI, the shooting happened around 6:33 p.m. Nov. 3 in the parking lot of a Krispy Kreme at 120 Highway 138 West in Stockbridge.
A Henry County police officer reportedly saw two teenagers, ages 16 and 17, in the parking lot and approached them.
After speaking with the teens briefly, the officer gave verbal commands for the 17-year-old to remove his hands from his pockets, the GBI said.
The 17-year-old then passed a handgun to the 16-year-old, who ran from the area with the gun.
The officer chased the teen on foot and repeatedly told him to drop the weapon, according to the GBI. The teen did not drop the gun, and the officer fired, hitting him.
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Medical aid was provided, but the 16-year-old, identified as Tyrie Howse, was pronounced dead at the scene. No officers were injured, and a gun was recovered.
Howse’s classmates told Channel 2 Action News he was a straight-A, honor roll student.
“The officer involved has been placed on administrative leave pending the conclusion of the investigation,” the HCPD said.
The officer’s identity has been released.
The Henry County Police Department said it requested an independent investigation by the GBI immediately after the shooting to ensure a thorough and impartial review.
Once the investigation is complete, the case file will be submitted to the Henry County District Attorney’s Office for review.
The department said it understands the community’s desire for transparency and answers but asked for patience as the investigation continues.
“We remain committed to accountability and maintaining the integrity of the investigative process,” the statement said.
Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to contact the GBI Atlanta Regional Investigative Office in Conyers at 770-388-5019.
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