Shoplifter arrested after pointing a gun at investigator, deputies say
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - A man was arrested while shoplifting on Saturday and charged with aggravated assault on a peace officer after pointing a gun at an investigator.
An investigator with the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office was on a special duty assignment at the Walmart on Wrightsboro Road and attempted to apprehend a suspected shoplifter at around 2:58 p.m., according to the incident report.
During the encounter, the suspect, 43-year-old Edward Morris, drew a handgun from his waistband and pointed it at the investigator before running away, officials say.
The investigator pursued Morris while maintaining the safety of the people in the store, the report says.
Deputies caught the suspect at approximately 3:03 p.m. in the parking lot behind AutoZone on North Leg Road, according to the report.
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Officials say deputies have started a K9 search of Morris’s path for the discarded firearm.
Investigators reviewed the surveillance footage of Morris pointing the handgun at the investigator during the incident, the report says.
According to the report, Morris was charged with aggravated assault on a peace officer, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime, misdemeanor shoplifting and outstanding warrant for DUI in Rockdale County, GA.
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“This is a stark reminder that what may seem like a routine shoplifting incident can escalate into a potentially deadly encounter. The moment Edward Morris made the decision to draw and point a firearm at one of our investigators, he not only endangered his own life but the lives of every innocent person nearby. I commend Inv. Cole for his professionalism and restraint under pressure, as well as all deputies involved for bringing this dangerous suspect into custody without further incident. The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to protecting our community while upholding the highest standards of discipline and integrity in the face of danger,” said Sheriff Eugene Brantley in a statement.
The investigation is ongoing, and there will be updates when they are available.
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