MERIWETHER COUNTY, Ga. — The suspect in the shooting death of a Georgia police officer is dead, officials said Wednesday.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation said Jimmie Lee Steverson died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound after being stopped in Anderson County, South Carolina.
The officer had arrested the suspect days before the shooting, LIVE on Channel 2 Action News starting at 4:00 p.m.
The GBI said Wednesday morning that Warm Springs Officer Chris Fisher was killed in a shooting outside a motel.
Steverson was identified as the suspect and a Blue Alert was issued.
Channel 2’s Steve Gehlbach reported live outside the investigation at the Meriwether Country Inn on Spring Street.
There was a large police presence with Warm Springs officers, Meriwether County deputies and GBI agents on the scene.
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The GBI says the shooting happened around 11:57 p.m. Tuesday. Officials have not said what prompted officers to respond to the motel.
Gov. Brian Kemp says he is “deeply saddened” after hearing the officer died.
“This is a tragic reminder of the dangers law enforcement face on a daily basis in service to their communities, and I ask that all Georgians lift up Fisher’s family and his fellow officers in prayer,” Kemp posted on X.
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Meriwether County Schools sent a letter to parents saying they will enhance security at all schools on Wednesday.
“Many of you may be aware of the shooting incident that occurred in Warm Springs overnight. We understand that news like this is concerning, and we want to assure you that the safety and well-being of our students, teachers, and staff remain our highest priority.
As a precaution, we have enhanced security measures at each school, while School Resource Officers (SROs), metal detectors, entry clerks, and secure entry points are always in place at each location.
We are closely monitoring the situation and we will continue to enhance security measures as long as necessary. We appreciate your understanding, cooperation, and continued support as we work to ensure the safety of our school communities.”
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