GBI investigates APD’s deadly officer involved shooting

Suspect shot in early morning gun battle with Albany Police later dies at hospital

ALBANY, GA – The GBI is taking the lead in investigating an officer involved shooting early Friday morning in Albany, that has left an aggravated assault suspect dead and an undetermined number of APD officers on administrative leave.

The deceased has since been identified as 23 year old Kortnee Lashon Warren.

GBI’s Director of Public Affairs Nelly Miles says Warren was struck by an officer’s bullet during a gun battle with Albany Police, who were investigating a previous shooting at the Mercer Oaks Apartment Complex on West Mercer Avenue. Warren was transported to a hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Albany Police officials say it began with a call shortly after midnight of a reported aggravated assault at Mercer Oaks.

As officers arrived on scene, they found a gunshot victim with a wound to his head. The victim was taken to the hospital, his condition and identity are still unknown.

Albany Police say as officers began their investigation, the suspected triggerman returned to scene, armed with a gun.

Officers say the gunman refused to drop his weapon as ordered and instead, fired on police.

Warren was reportedly hit multiple times in the crossfire, no Albany Police officers were hurt.

Albany Police Department Public Information Officer Phyllis Whitley-Banks says now that the investigation has been turned over to the GBI, all further procedures will follow GBI protocol, referring all of our questions to the GBI.