Toccoa is currently the focal point of an intensive manhunt following an encounter between a man and local law enforcement that left officers scrambling for cover. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation identified the suspect as 37-year-old Montavious Cantrell Winkfield, who reportedly opened fire during a routine traffic stop yesterday afternoon. The altercation, which unfolded near the intersection of Broad Street and Diagonal Street, has prompted the GBI to delve into the officers' response during the incident, as stated in a report published by FOX5 Atlanta.
According to the GBI, the event took place at approximately 2:10 p.m. when Toccoa Police initiated the stop. It rapidly escalated when Winkfield exited his car and began to immediately open fire, forcing the officers to rapidly return fire before he fled the scene. Remarkably, no officers sustained injuries during the exchange. Warrants have since been issued for Winkfield on two counts of aggravated assault on law enforcement. In their pursuit, authorities have cautioned the public not to approach Winkfield, but to rather call 911 if he is sighted, as mentioned in a statement obtained by WYFF4.
The GBI and Toccoa Police have worked together to rapidly disseminate information and are employing the community’s assistance to aid in locating Winkfield. The community is implored to report sightings or information potentially leading to his apprehension to the Toccoa Police Department tip line or to the GBI crime tip line.
Resources have been allocated accordingly to ensure Winkfield is apprehended swiftly, to uphold public safety and to simultaneously protect his due process under law. Channels for tips include calling Toccoa PD at 706-282-3236 or reaching out to the GBI at 1-800-597-TIPS (8477). Moreover, further updates are expected as the investigation unfolds and authorities continue to urge anyone who might possess information to forthwith engage with them.
