A sheriff’s deputy in Georgia shot down when he tried to execute a search has died of his wounds.
Carroll County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the death by Investigator Taylor Bristow early Saturday morning, days after he was seriously injured in the line of duty.
“Tonight, we mourn the loss of Investigator Bristow, who has left this earth and gained his heavenly wings, the sheriff’s office said in a statement. “He served our community with unwavering passion and dedicated his life to protecting the citizens of Carroll County.”
Bristow served with the Carrol County Sheriff’s Office for six years. He is survived by his wife and two children.
Bristow tried to perform a search warrant related to a Georgia Bureau of Investigation child exploitation case when he was shot Tuesday.
Authorities said the suspect, identified as 40-year-old Christopher Bly, opened the front door of his home on Don Rich Drive and retreated inside, prompting responding deputies to follow.
“Bly pulled out a gun and fired and struck himself and one of the deputies, the GBI said in a news release. “Bly was pronounced dead at the scene.”
The fatal incident is still under investigation.
On Saturday, a procession escorted Bristow’s body from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation’s crime lab to Hightower Funeral Home in Bremen.
“When the sun rose this morning, the reality of our loss still feels unfathomable“, the sheriff’s office said. “The grief we bear at the passing of one of our own is beyond words, but we are grateful to be part of a community whose overwhelming support and love is equally immeasurable.”