A tense domestic disturbance in West Point, Troup County escalated into a deadly confrontation Thursday night, ending with a man dead after an officer-involved shooting. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) is now probing the fatal shooting of 52-year-old Russell Jason Heiser, the agency reported.
Details provided by The Georgia Bureau of Investigation reveal that at approximately 9:30 p.m., Troup County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a call at the 1100 block of Shoemaker Road for a domestic situation. Upon their arrival, deputies discovered Heiser armed and erratically waving a firearm. Officers attempted to de-escalate the crisis, persuading Heiser to lay down his weapon while escorting several individuals from the premises to safety.
The situation deteriorated when Heiser, after initially setting down his gun, suddenly picked it up again and aimed it at the deputies. According to The Georgia Bureau of Investigation report, this action prompted two deputies to discharge their firearms. Heiser then retreated back into the home. Moments later, the sound of a single gunshot from inside the house was heard by the deputies.
Deputies who entered the home found Heiser suffering from a gunshot wound. In the midst of chaos, EMS personnel and deputies rendered first aid before he was transported to a local hospital. Subsequently, Heiser succumbed to his injuries at the medical facility, The Georgia Bureau of Investigation confirmed. An autopsy for Heiser is set at the GBI Medical Examiner’s Office in Atlanta.
The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has taken the reins to ensure an independent investigation is conducted thoroughly. Following its completion, the findings will be handed over to the Coweta Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office for review. The agency is appealing to the public, urging anyone with information regarding the shooting to come forward. Tips can be reported anonymously to 1-800-597-TIPS (8477), or online through the GBI website or the See Something, Send Something mobile app.
