Ocilla suspect fatally shot at roadblock
GBI is investigating Friday's officer related fatal shooting of 63 year old suspect
OCILLA, GA – The GBI confirms it is investigating a deadly officer involved shooting in Irwin County Friday afternoon.
The Irwin County Sheriff’s Office asked the GBI to conduct an independent investigation after a fleeing suspect was shot and killed.
No deputies were injured during this incident.
Preliminary information suggests that Irwin County Task Force Agents saw 63 year old Henry Wilson Mercer of Ocilla, driving a Chevrolet Silverado. Agents knew that Mercer had an outstanding warrant.
When they attempted to stop Mercer, he refused to stop and sped away.
A high-speed pursuit took place over several miles.
Irwin County Sheriff’s Deputies were alerted to the pursuit.
Deputies set up a roadblock at the intersection of Ponderosa Road and Pinetta Road to attempt to end the pursuit.
As Mercer sped towards the blocked intersection, he accelerated and drove in the direction of where a deputy was standing.
Another deputy fired at Mercer, hitting him. Mercer crashed after being shot and was pronounced dead at the scene.
The GBI will conduct an independent investigation. Once complete, the case file will be given to the Tift County District Attorney’s Office for review.
