The Georgia Bureau of Investigation announced on May 8 that it is investigating an officer involved shooting in Nahunta, Brantley County, Georgia. Thomas Kenneth Bowen III, age 37, of Blackshear, was killed during the incident. No officers were injured.
According to the statement, deputies from the Brantley County Sheriff’s Office arrived at a home on Pat Harris Road on May 7 around 5:35 p.m. to arrest Bowen on outstanding warrants. As deputies approached, Bowen entered his truck with a boat and trailer attached and fled the scene. The pursuit continued along Pat Harris Road and Hoke Road before Bowen stopped his vehicle.
The release states that after stopping on Hoke Road, Bowen exited his truck and attempted to release the trailer. Deputies gave several verbal commands which he did not follow. When deputies tried to use a taser, Bowen continued resisting and then pulled a firearm from his waistband and pointed it at them. Deputies fired their weapons at Bowen, striking him.
Medical assistance was provided by deputies at the scene while emergency medical services were called; however, Bowen died at the location. His body will be taken to the GBI Crime Lab in Pooler for an autopsy.
The GBI said it will conduct an independent investigation into the incident. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the GBI’s Regional Investigative Office in Kingsland or submit anonymous tips online or through their mobile app. Once completed, findings from this investigation will be forwarded to the Waycross Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office for review.
